PEG-15 Stearamide

AKA: Stearic Acid Derivative
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from stearic acid (an 18-carbon fatty acid) and ethylene oxide, typically sourced from animal fats or vegetable oils. Synthesized through ethoxylation, bonding stearamide with polyethylene glycol chains to create an emulsifying surfactant.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-hydroxy-.omega.-[(1-oxooctadecyl)amino]- (15 mol EO average molar ratio)
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2019
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR