PEG-12 Diisostearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 12 Diisostearate, Emollient
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-(1-oxo-16-methylheptadecyl)-.omega.-[(1-oxo-16-methylheptadecyl)oxy]-, (12 mol EO average molar ratio)
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester developed in the latter half of the 20th century as an emollient and emulsifier. Created to improve product texture and stability in cosmetic formulations.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR