What Is Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate?
Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate is a large, water-loving molecule created by attaching about 150 units of ethylene oxide to pentaerythritol, a plant-derived sugar alcohol, then linking that backbone to four stearic acid chains sourced from vegetable oils such as coconut or palm. The result is a waxy, off-white solid that blends well with both water and oil.
Chemists first explored this type of ingredient in the 1970s while searching for gentler alternatives to harsh soaps. By boosting the number of polyethylene glycol (PEG) units, they found they could improve stability and skin feel, which led to Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate making its way into personal care formulas in the 1980s.
Manufacturing starts with pentaerythritol, which is reacted with ethylene oxide in a controlled setting to build the PEG chain. Stearic acid is then esterified onto the molecule, giving it its four “tails.” After purification, the finished ingredient is delivered as flakes or beads that melt easily into product bases.
You will most often spot Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate in cleansers, face masks, body washes, creamy shampoos, makeup removers, moisturizers and sunscreen lotions where a smooth, uniform texture is key.
Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one main purpose in beauty products.
As an emulsifying agent it helps oil and water stay blended so a formula remains creamy, stable and pleasant to apply. By forming a fine network around tiny droplets it stops separation, prevents product waste and ensures each use delivers consistent performance and skin feel.
Who Can Use Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate
It is considered gentle enough for most skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination because it sits on the surface and does not add meaningful oil or draw out water. Sensitive or eczema-prone skin usually tolerates it as well but in rare cases the large PEG portion can cause a mild stinging sensation.
The ingredient is made from plant-derived stearic acid and synthetically added ethylene oxide, with no animal by-products, so formulas that use it are generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If a brand sources its stearic acid from animal fat the label should state so, which is why anyone following a strict lifestyle may wish to confirm the origin with the manufacturer.
Available safety data show no specific reproductive risks. Pregnant or breastfeeding consumers can use products containing Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, yet this is not medical advice and those individuals should discuss any skincare routine with their doctor to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it is compatible with common actives like retinol or vitamin C. It also rinses clean, so it will not interfere with makeup wear or SPF performance.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Skin responses to Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate differ from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects that are possible but unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or itchiness, most often in very sensitive individuals
- Contact dermatitis in people already allergic to polyethylene glycol compounds
- Eye stinging or watering if a cleanser containing the ingredient is not rinsed out fully
- Follicle buildup that leaves hair feeling coated when used at high levels in shampoos
- Impurities like residual 1,4-dioxane if the manufacturer does not adequately purify the raw material
If any discomfort, rash or other unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate is a bulky water-soluble molecule that stays mostly on the skin’s surface and rinses away easily so it seldom blocks pores. It contains stearic acid chains, yet the overall structure is too large and hydrophilic to pack tightly inside follicles, which keeps its clogging potential low. The rating inches above zero only because formulas that pair it with heavy oils or waxes could feel occlusive on very oily skin.
Suitable for acne-prone users in most rinse-off or lightweight leave-on products.
If you notice breakouts, the culprit is more likely the overall formula rather than this single emulsifier.
Summary
Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate is an emulsifier that locks oil and water together, stabilizes textures and prevents separation. It does this by wrapping around oil droplets, lowering surface tension and creating a smooth uniform mixture that feels pleasant on skin and hair.
While not a headline ingredient, it appears in a steady stream of cleansers, body washes, masks, shampoos and lotions because it is reliable, cost-effective and easy to work with.
Current data show it is low-risk for irritation or sensitization when used in standard amounts, though highly sensitive users should stay alert to any discomfort. As with any new product, patch testing is a smart step to confirm personal compatibility.