Polyoxyl 40 Stearate

POL

8/10

Concern level

High concern

PEG-40 Stearate (also called Polyoxyl 40 Stearate / PEG-40 Monostearate) is a nonionic polyoxyethylene fatty ester used mainly as an oil-in-water emulsifier, solubilizer, and surfactant in creams, lotions, and cleansing products. It helps blend oil and water phases and can also improve texture and product stability. ([cir-safety.org](https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/PEG%20Stearates.pdf))

Pore-clogging

Low

Pregnancy

Safe

Regulatory

No data

Concerns

PEG

Chemical Properties

pH Range

6.00 - 8.00

Typical Concentration

0.20% - 10.10%

CAS Number: 9004-99-3

Skin Type Compatibility

dry skin8/10

oily skin7/10

sensitive skin7/10

acne prone6/10

mature skin7/10

normal skin8/10

Interactions

incompatible with: Can be less ideal in very low-pH or very high-pH systems if long-term hydrolytic stability is a concern., May be incompatible with some strongly electrolyte-loaded systems or poorly balanced emulsion systems, where viscosity or emulsion stability can drop.

Risks & Warnings

Generally low-risk in cosmetics, but it can cause mild irritation—especially in the eyes or on very compromised skin—at higher or undiluted concentrations. CIR reported no evidence of sensitization in human patch testing, but some eye irritation was seen in rabbit studies with undiluted material. ([cir-safety.org](https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/PEG%20Stearates.pdf))

Vegan Cruelty-Free

Found In Products

PanOxyl

PanOxyl 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Foaming Wash, Maximum Strength, Daily Acne-Fighting Face and Body Cleanser, Face Wash to Clear, Treat and Prevent Acne Pimples and Stubborn Breakouts, 5.5 Oz Tube