What Is Peg-190 Distearate?
Peg-190 Distearate is a synthetic ingredient made by attaching about 190 units of ethylene oxide to stearic acid, a fatty acid that usually comes from plant oils like coconut or palm. The result is a waxy, water-soluble compound that bridges the gap between oil and water. Chemists began experimenting with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and fatty acids in the mid-20th century to improve the texture and rinse-off of soaps and lotions. Peg-190 Distearate emerged from that research as a reliable workhorse for modern personal care formulas.
Manufacturing starts with stearic acid, which is reacted with ethylene oxide in a controlled setting. The number 190 refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units added, giving the ingredient its high molecular weight and mild nature. Once purified and dried it appears as a flake or pasty solid that melts easily into liquid bases.
You will spot Peg-190 Distearate most often in rinse-off products. Body washes, facial cleansers, bubble baths and shampoo blends use it to create a creamy lather and leave skin feeling soft. It also shows up in lotions, masks and exfoliating scrubs where a thicker feel and even texture are desired.
Peg-190 Distearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators turn to Peg-190 Distearate because it performs several helpful jobs in one ingredient.
- Cleansing: Acts as a gentle surfactant that loosens dirt and oil so they rinse away easily without stripping skin
- Emulsifying: Helps oil and water mix smoothly which keeps creams and gel-like washes from separating while giving them a uniform look
- Viscosity Controlling: Thickens watery formulas just enough to create a rich cushiony feel that spreads evenly
Who Can Use Peg-190 Distearate
Peg-190 Distearate is generally considered suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily because it is a mild surfactant that rinses clean without leaving a heavy residue. People with very reactive or compromised skin should still monitor for any signs of irritation since any PEG ingredient can occasionally disturb an already weakened barrier.
The ingredient itself can be sourced from either plant or animal stearic acid, but most cosmetic suppliers choose vegetable-derived stearic acid from coconut or palm. If a product is labeled vegan or vegetarian friendly the stearic acid base will be plant based so check for that certification if it matters to you.
No specific restrictions have been placed on Peg-190 Distearate for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Its large molecular size limits skin penetration and systemic exposure. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
Peg-190 Distearate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it does not raise the risk of sunburn or hyperpigmentation. It is also nonvolatile and fragrance free which makes it a low-odor choice for users who are sensitive to scent.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-190 Distearate differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects yet most consumers will not experience these issues when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching especially on already sensitive or damaged skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where an individual develops a specific allergy to the ingredient
- Eye irritation if a cleanser or shampoo containing the ingredient accidentally gets into the eyes
- Enhanced absorption of other actives because surfactants can occasionally increase skin permeability which may intensify the effect of strong actives in the same formula
If any discomfort or reaction occurs discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Peg-190 Distearate is highly water soluble, rinses off cleanly and does not leave an oily film that could trap dead cells inside pores. Its large molecular size keeps it on the surface of the skin and it is normally used at low concentrations in wash-off products, so the chance of it clogging pores is minimal.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, especially in cleansers and shampoos where contact time is short. Very sensitive or severely congested skin might still prefer simpler formulas but most users will not notice extra blemishes from this ingredient.
As with many PEG-based surfactants, any pore issues are more likely to come from the overall formula or heavy oils paired with it rather than from Peg-190 Distearate itself.
Summary
Peg-190 Distearate works as a mild surfactant for cleansing, an emulsifier that keeps oil and water blended and a viscosity controller that adds a silky thickness. It pulls dirt away, stabilises creamy textures and gives gels a cushiony feel without greasiness.
While not the hottest ingredient on social media, it is a quiet staple in many mainstream body washes, facial cleansers and bubble baths because it is reliable, cost effective and easy to formulate with.
Current research and decades of use show Peg-190 Distearate to be low risk for irritation or systemic absorption. Still, skin is personal so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains it and stop use if irritation occurs.