Isosteareth-16
AKA “Polyoxyethylene isostearyl ether, PEG-16 isostearyl ether
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Isosteareth-16
AKA: Polyoxyethylene isostearyl ether, PEG-16 isostearyl ether
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Synthetic
Clean
Science: Origin: Botanic/Natural | Functions: Cleansing, Surfactant - Cleansing Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Effective at 11.51%
CAS #
-
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Removes Impurities
Cleansing Surfactant
Traditional Use
A polyethylene glycol ether of isostearyl alcohol developed as a modern emulsifier and surfactant. Used in contemporary cosmetics to create stable and mild cleansing products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.02%
23.0%
0%32%
Effective Range
CIR reported use: 18-23 | 0.02-0.4 | 0.2-1
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR