PEG-40 Distearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 40 Distearate
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
PEG-40 Distearate is the polyethylene glycol diester of stearic acid
CAS #
-
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Antioxidant Protection
Wound Healing
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthetic emulsifier combining high-molecular-weight PEG with stearic acid, developed mid-20th century. Created for stable, consistent emulsions in heavier cosmetic formulations.
EWG
4
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
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR