What Is Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate?
Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate is a large molecule created by joining stearic acid, a fatty acid most often taken from coconut or palm oils, with a small glycerin chain that has been linked to about 150 units of ethylene oxide. The result is a wax-like compound that loves both oil and water, which makes it a handy helper in many personal care formulas.
Fatty acid esters and polyglyceryl ingredients first appeared in cosmetics in the mid-1900s when brands looked for gentler alternatives to harsh soaps. As polyethylene glycol (PEG) chemistry improved, chemists found that adding long PEG chains made these esters even milder and more versatile. Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate grew out of that research and is now valued for its ability to keep formulas stable while feeling silky on the skin.
The ingredient is produced in three basic steps. First glycerin molecules are linked together to make polyglyceryl-2. Next stearic acid is attached to form a trio of fatty acid esters. Finally the whole structure is treated with ethylene oxide to add the long PEG chain. The finished material is purified, cooled and grated or flaked for easy use in manufacturing plants.
You will most often spot Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate in rinse-off items like cream cleansers, shower gels and baby washes, but it is also common in moisturizing lotions, makeup removers, facial masks and even some hair conditioners where a rich yet non-greasy texture is wanted.
Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient offers several perks that help both the product and the skin feel better.
- Cleansing: Its oil-loving and water-loving ends grab onto dirt and excess sebum then lift them away when you rinse, giving a gentle cleanse that does not strip the skin
- Skin Conditioning: The fatty acid part leaves behind a light, soft film that smooths rough spots and improves overall skin feel
- Emulsifying: It keeps oily and watery ingredients blended so creams stay uniform and do not separate on the shelf or on your face
Who Can Use Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate
This ingredient is generally friendly to all skin types. Dry, normal and combination skins tend to enjoy the light conditioning feel, while sensitive skin usually tolerates it because it is mild and non stripping. Very oily or acne prone users can still use it, but heavier formulas that rely on the waxy texture might feel rich, so choosing lighter products is key.
Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate is typically sourced from plant based fatty acids like coconut or palm, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. A few suppliers can use tallow derived stearic acid, so anyone avoiding animal ingredients should look for brands that specify vegetable origin or hold a vegan certification.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel lists this material as safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women when used as intended in rinse off or leave on products. That said, this is not medical advice; expecting or nursing mothers should run any skincare they use past their doctor just to be safe.
The molecule is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odorless, colorless and free of common allergens like gluten or nuts, which broadens its compatibility with many lifestyles.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate are rare and differ from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects, but most users will not experience any of them when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation or redness, especially on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific PEG sensitivity
- Temporary stinging if applied to freshly shaved or compromised skin
- Watery eyes or mild eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Clogged pores or breakouts when used in extremely rich formulas on acne prone skin
If any undesirable reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5. Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate contains stearic acid groups that on their own can clog pores, yet the large PEG and polyglycerin portions keep the molecule water compatible and less likely to lodge in follicles. Most formulas also rinse away cleanly, further lowering the risk. Overall this ingredient is only mildly comedogenic and is generally fine for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, especially when used in lighter or rinse off products. Heavily anhydrous balms that rely on high percentages of this waxy ester could pose more of a risk, so product texture and total formulation matter.
Summary
Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate acts as a cleanser, skin conditioner and emulsifier. Its oil loving stearic acid anchors grab grime while the long PEG chain pulls everything into water so the mess can be washed away. The same dual nature lets it bridge oils and water in creams, keeping mixtures smooth, while the fatty acid backbone leaves a soft touch on skin.
It is not the hottest buzz ingredient but it has quietly powered countless cleansers, lotions and baby products for decades because it is reliable, mild and easy to formulate with.
Safety studies and industry reviews rank it as low risk for irritation or systemic toxicity. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product containing Peg-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate before full use.