Steareth-21
PEG ether of stearyl alcohol with 21 ethylene oxide units. A nonionic o/w emulsifier for creams and lotions. Pregnancy-safe.
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
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Steareth-21 is a nonionic emulsifier produced by ethoxylating stearyl alcohol (C18) with 21 ethylene oxide molecules. INCI: Steareth-21. A waxy mass with an HLB around 15.5 – optimal for oil-in-water emulsions. In cosmetics it is paired with Steareth-2 to form the classic emulsion base for creams and lotions. It gives a stable, uniform texture with pleasant slip. Use levels run from 1 to 5%. Pregnancy safety. Skin absorption into the systemic circulation is minimal. CIR rates the Steareth-2-100 family as acceptable. Skin profile. Low irritation and allergen potential. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for all skin types. PEG ethoxylates may contain traces of 1,4-dioxane, regulated to 10 ppm in the EU. No active effects.
Frequently asked questions
Is Steareth-21 safe during pregnancy?
Steareth-21 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Steareth-21 for?
Steareth-21 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Steareth-21 and what does it do in cosmetics?
PEG ether of stearyl alcohol with 21 ethylene oxide units.
Is Steareth-21 comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Steareth-21?
The INCI name is Steareth-21. It may also appear as: PEG-21 Stearyl Ether.
See Steareth-21 in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Stearyl Alcohol, Stearyl Beeswax, Stearyl Dimethicone, Stearyl Stearate, C30-45 Alkyl Cetearyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Erythrulose, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Oil, Polyquaternium-7
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