What Is Steareth-80?
Steareth-80 is a synthetic, nonionic surfactant created by attaching an average of 80 ethylene oxide units to stearyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol that can be sourced from vegetable oils or petroleum. First explored by chemists in the mid-20th century as part of a larger group of polyethylene glycol ethers, it gained popularity when cosmetic formulators discovered its ability to mix oil and water efficiently without irritating most skin types. Production involves reacting purified stearyl alcohol with ethylene oxide in a controlled, alkaline environment, then purifying the resulting waxy solid until it meets cosmetic-grade standards.
You will find Steareth-80 in a wide range of products where thorough yet gentle cleansing is desired, such as facial cleansers, micellar water, makeup removers, shampoo, body wash, clay or sheet masks, exfoliating scrubs, lightweight moisturizers and some leave-on hair treatments. Its high ethoxylation level allows it to remain liquid at room temperature, making it easy to incorporate into both water-based and emulsified formulas.
Steareth-80’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In beauty products Steareth-80 is valued mainly for one core role that boosts both performance and skin feel.
Cleansing: As a surfactant it lowers surface tension so oils, dirt and makeup lift away from skin or hair when rinsed with water. Its large ethylene oxide chain gives it mildness, helping formulas cleanse effectively without leaving a tight or stripped sensation.
Who Can Use Steareth-80
Steareth-80 is considered gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, oily and acne prone skin because its large ethylene oxide chain softens the cleansing action and helps maintain skin’s natural moisture balance. People with very sensitive or compromised skin should still review the full formula because irritation is more likely to stem from stronger surfactants or fragrances that may accompany it.
The ingredient itself can be suitable for vegans and vegetarians when the stearyl alcohol is sourced from plant oils such as coconut or palm. Brands that rely on animal derived tallow would make the finished product non-vegan so it is best to verify supply chain statements or look for vegan certification if that matters to you.
No data suggest that Steareth-80 poses particular risks to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics at typical concentrations. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
Steareth-80 does not absorb UV light and is not known to make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. It also has a very low likelihood of clogging pores, interacts well with a broad range of actives and is compatible with both hard and soft water.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Steareth-80 vary from person to person. The following are potential side effects yet they remain uncommon when the ingredient is used at the levels approved for cosmetics.
- Mild transient stinging or burning especially on abraded or very dry skin
- Temporary redness that usually subsides after rinsing
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitised to polyethylene glycol derivatives
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Enhanced penetration of other actives which could amplify irritation from strong exfoliants or retinoids used in the same routine
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Steareth-80 is highly water soluble and rinses off cleanly so it does not leave an occlusive film that could trap oil or dead skin cells in pores. Its fatty alcohol backbone is balanced by a long chain of ethylene oxide units which makes the molecule large and hydrophilic, further reducing its ability to lodge inside follicles. Isolated reports of clogged pores are rare and usually linked to heavier ingredients used alongside it rather than Steareth-80 itself.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because Steareth-80 can boost penetration of other ingredients, formulas that pair it with rich oils or waxes may feel heavier than expected which could indirectly contribute to congestion for some users.
Summary
Steareth-80 is mainly a cleansing surfactant that loosens makeup, sebum and grime so they rinse away with water. Its long ethoxylated chain softens the cleansing action allowing products to clean effectively while keeping skin comfortable. It also acts as a mild solubilizer helping tiny amounts of oils or fragrances stay evenly dispersed in watery formulas.
The ingredient is fairly common in face washes micellar waters and lightweight hair products though it competes with newer plant-derived surfactants that offer similar benefits.
Current safety reviews show Steareth-80 to be low risk at the concentrations used in cosmetics. Most people tolerate it well yet skin is individual so it is smart to patch test any new product that features this ingredient just to be cautious.