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PEG-12 Stearate
AKA “Ethylene glycol monostearate, Glycol stearate, 2-Hydroxyethyl octadecanoate, Monthybase, Monthyle, Parastarin, Ivorit, Sedetol”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Peg-12 stearate
AKA: Ethylene glycol monostearate, Glycol stearate, 2-Hydroxyethyl octadecanoate, Monthybase, Monthyle, Parastarin, Ivorit, Sedetol
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
Helps blend oil and water-based ingredients together, creating a smooth, uniform texture that feels pleasant on skin.
Solubility POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL ESTERS AND ETHERS INCR THE WATER SOLUBILITY OF TYROTHRICIN.
Formula
C20H40O3
Mol. Weight
328.50
CAS #
9004-99-3
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester created by reacting polyethylene glycol with stearic acid (derived from animal or plant fats). Developed in the cosmetics industry as a water-soluble emulsifier and thickening agent.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR