PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate is a high-molecular weight ethoxylated ester (formed from pentaerythritol and stearic acid, with approximately 150 moles of ethylene oxide) that functions primarily as a viscosity-increasing agent, emulsifier and rheology modifier in cosmetic systems. In skincare formulations, this ingredient enhances texture and frames the sensory experience by stabilising oil-in-water or surfactant-rich systems, improving spreadability and film uniformity. It can aid in thickening low-viscosity fluids, supporting formulas such as lightweight lotions, gels or serums where controlled rheology and elegant drop/spread behaviour are required.
In hair-care and rinse/leave-on systems, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate lends structural support to shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes and tonics by modulating viscosity, reducing resistance in pump/dispenser systems and improving deposition or feel of actives or colourants. Its performance in electrolyte-rich surfactant systems and capacity to stabilise challenging clear or acid-balanced formulas mark it as a valuable tool for hair-care formulators seeking refined texture and controlled product behaviour.
Quick Insights
Ingredient Rating:
GOOD
Type of Ingredient:
Moisturizer, Emollient, Texture Enhancer, Conditioner, Volume Control Agent, Emulsifier and Solvent
Intended Function:
To increase viscosity, stabilise emulsions or surfactant systems, enhance texture and improve delivery/spread of actives or colourants in skin- and hair-care formulations.
Common Applications:
Used in low-viscosity lotions, gels, clear shampoos, hair tonics, colour-care systems, leave-on dressings and other products where refined rheology and stabilisation of oil/surfactant interfaces are needed.
Target Audience:
Formulators, brand-owners and contract manufacturers developing premium skincare or hair-care products who prioritise advanced texture, refined feel, and robust stability in challenging fluid systems.
Also Known As:
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate; Polyoxyethylene (150) Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate; CAS 130249-48-8.
Safety Analysis
The safety profile of PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate has been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel and it is considered safe in cosmetic use at the concentrations and practices of use described in the assessment. The large molecular size makes significant percutaneous absorption unlikely. The CIR report indicated maximum reported use concentrations of ~5 % in rinse-off (e.g., hair dyes) and ~1.8 % in tonics/dressings (leave-on) at the time of the review. From a regulatory risk-perspective, controlling residual impurities from ethoxylation (such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane) is important; the CIR panel noted that, when manufactured with good practices, these impurities at final product levels pose no significant hazard.
References
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