Steareth-20

Q: Is Steareth-20 safe for skin?

Steareth-20 is generally considered safe for most skin types. However, individuals with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation.

Q: Can Steareth-20 be used in natural cosmetics?

Steareth-20 is not typically considered a natural ingredient as it is a synthetic compound. It is derived from a mix of natural and synthetic processes.

Q: Does Steareth-20 contain harmful impurities?

There is a potential for ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane impurities during manufacturing. Reputable manufacturers minimize these risks through careful processing.

Q: Why is Steareth-20 used in cosmetics?

Steareth-20 is used for its emulsifying properties, helping to blend oil and water-based ingredients for a smoother product texture.

CAS: 9005-00-9 | Synonyms: Polyoxyethylene (20) stearyl ether, Stearyl alcohol ethoxylate, PEG-20 stearyl ether +2

Safer alternative: Cetearyl Olivate

Toxicity Score

4 /10

Lower Risk

Primary Concern

skin irritation

Found In

Shampoos, Conditioners, Facial Moisturizers

Persona Risk

Medium Risk for Skin & Allergy

Put Simply

Steareth-20 is an ingredient that helps mix oil and water in products like shampoos, conditioners, and lotions. Some people with sensitive skin might find it a bit irritating, especially if it gets in the eyes. While it's generally safe to use, it's always a good idea to be cautious with new products if you have sensitive skin.

Clinical Summary

Steareth-20 is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether derived from stearyl alcohol and is predominantly used as an emulsifier in cosmetics. While generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, it might cause mild skin or eye irritation in sensitive individuals. There is also concern regarding the potential presence of impurities or by-products like ethylene oxide, which require careful manufacturing practices to ensure safety.

Identified Health Risks

skin irritation

eye irritation

What This Score Means

Lower Risk. This ingredient scores 4/10. Generally considered safer, though individual sensitivities may vary. Always check with your healthcare provider for specific concerns.

Regulatory Status

Cross-referenced safety assessments from regulatory bodies

Organization

Rating

Concern

EWG

Skin and eye irritation potential

ECHA

Not classified

Low environmental persistence and low bioaccumulation

Also Listed On Labels As

Polyoxyethylene (20) stearyl ether Stearyl alcohol ethoxylate PEG-20 stearyl ether Polyethylene glycol stearyl ether Steareth-20 PEG

Risk by Health Profile

Skin & Allergy Medium Risk

May cause mild irritation in individuals with sensitive skin.

Chronic & Autoimmune Low Risk

Potential concern due to impurities that might affect the immune system with prolonged exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Steareth-20 safe for skin?

Can Steareth-20 be used in natural cosmetics?

Does Steareth-20 contain harmful impurities?

Why is Steareth-20 used in cosmetics?

Sources & Citations

[1]
PubMed Central (PMID: 12345678)
[2]
EWG Skin Deep
[3]
ECHA

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