What Is Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate?
Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate is a plant or vegetable based ingredient created by linking glycerin, stearic acid and about 120 units of ethylene oxide. The glycerin comes from fats or oils, while stearic acid is a fatty acid often sourced from coconut or palm. Chemists first began adding long chains of ethylene oxide to fatty acids in the 1950s to make gentler surfactants for personal care products, and Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate soon found a place in cleansing formulas that needed to remove dirt without stripping skin.
To make it, manufacturers start with glycerin and stearic acid, join them together through a process called esterification, then react that ester with ethylene oxide so the finished molecule has water-loving and oil-loving parts. This balance lets it mix oil and water, lift impurities and rinse away easily.
You will see Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate in foaming facial cleansers, creamy body washes, shampoos, micellar waters, makeup-removing wipes, clay or sheet masks and exfoliating scrubs. Some lightweight lotions also use it to help the formula rinse clean during the next wash.
Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized for one main job in cosmetics: cleansing. As a nonionic surfactant it helps water break up oil, makeup, sunscreen and everyday grime so they can be rinsed away. Because its fatty acid portion is naturally skin friendly, it tends to be milder than stronger detergents, leaving skin or hair feeling soft rather than tight or squeaky.
Who Can Use Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate
Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin because it cleans without stripping away natural oils. Even sensitive skin usually tolerates it thanks to its mild fatty acid base, though people with highly reactive skin should still check the full formula for other potential irritants.
The ingredient itself can be sourced from plant oils so products that use only plant-derived stearic acid and glycerin are suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If animal origin is a concern look for brands that specify plant or palm sources.
Current research shows no evidence that topical Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate absorbs systemically or poses risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should consult their doctor before starting new skincare.
It does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with sunscreen or other photo-protective products. There are also no reported issues with hair color treatments or most active skincare ingredients.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are uncommon and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, usually transient
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to polyethylene glycols or stearic acid derivatives
- Eye irritation if the cleanser or shampoo accidentally gets into the eyes
- Dryness or tightness when used in very high concentrations or with other strong surfactants
- Possible contamination issues if the finished product is not preserved properly, leading to spoilage-related reactions
If you notice persistent irritation, rash, or any unexpected reaction discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate is a large water-soluble molecule that does not linger in follicles or leave an oily film, so it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. Most formulations rinse away cleanly, taking dirt and excess sebum with them rather than adding new residue.
Because of this low score it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
The only time comedogenic risk might rise is if the product also contains heavier emollients or waxes; the ingredient itself remains low risk.
Summary
Peg-120 Glyceryl Stearate is primarily a cleansing agent that helps water grab onto oil, makeup and daily debris so they wash away without stripping skin or hair. Its fatty acid part anchors to grime while its long chain of ethylene oxide loves water, letting the two mix and rinse off smoothly.
It appears in many mainstream face washes, body cleansers and shampoos, though it is not as talked about as trendier surfactants because it has been quietly doing its job since the mid-20th century. Formulators still appreciate its mildness and plant-derived sources.
Current safety data show very low absorption through skin, minimal irritation potential and no cancer or reproductive concerns. Most people can use it with confidence, yet it is always wise to patch test any new product to rule out personal sensitivities.