PEG-100 Stearate is a product of poly-ethoxylation of stearic acid (18-carbon backbone fatty acid) that contains 100 moles of ethylene oxide (polymer part). The raw materials have mixed origins, namely, petrochemical and botanical. PEG-100 Stearate is a white to light brown solid with a negligibly specific fatty scent.
It is used in skin care preparations as a nonionic surfactant, solubilizer, or emulsifier (HLB value of 18.8) with good hydrophilic properties, enabling the production of stable emulsions containing lipophilic ingredients in water. PEG-100 Stearate can be used in delivery systems such as emulsified liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs).
PEG-100 Stearate enables the incorporation of salts and other electrolytes into emulsions and is widely used in skin care preparations for its stabilizing action. It is also often used with lower-HLB-value emulsifiers, such as Glyceryl Stearate, to form stable oil-in-water emulsions with a creamy consistency and a good sensory profile. Combined with Sorbitan Stearate, it enables gel-like products with improved viscoelastic properties.
PEG-100 Stearate is used in hand soaps, lotions, and creams. It can also serve as a solubilizer for perfumes, bath oils, and other aqueous-alcoholic preparations. It is also a viscosity builder and humectant for night creams and replenishing creams.
