Steareth-20
Non-ionic emulsifier based on stearyl alcohol and an ethoxylated fragment. Gives stable emulsions with a light texture.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Dry, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
Steareth-20 is a non-ionic emulsifier ester of stearyl alcohol and 20 ethylene-oxide units. HLB around 15.3, so it works in oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions with a light texture. Mechanism. Lowers interfacial tension and holds oil droplets in water. Produces light, quick-absorbing emulsions without greasy residue. Often paired with steareth-2 for optimal HLB. Where applied. Body lotions, light face creams, hair products, sunscreens. Final-product concentration 1-5%. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations. Ethoxylated ingredients may carry traces of 1,4-dioxane as a synthesis by-product; modern purification keeps it below 1 ppm. Non-sensitizing, non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – safe in rinse-off and leave-on formats.
Frequently asked questions
Is Steareth-20 safe during pregnancy?
Steareth-20 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Steareth-20 for?
Steareth-20 suits: oily, dry, combination, normal.
What is Steareth-20 and what does it do in cosmetics?
Non-ionic emulsifier based on stearyl alcohol and an ethoxylated fragment.
What's the INCI name for Steareth-20?
The INCI name is Steareth-20.
See Steareth-20 in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Steareth-21, Stearyl Alcohol, Stearyl Beeswax, Stearyl Dimethicone, C20-40 Alketh-10, Dodecyl Gallate, o-Cymen-5-ol, Polyquaternium-67
Published: · updated: