PEG-90 Diisostearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene glycol 90 diisostearate
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Not Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-(1-oxo-16-methylheptadecyl)-.omega.-[(1-oxo-16-methylheptadecyl)oxy]- (90 mol EO average molar ratio)
Form
Liquid
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Removes Impurities
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier developed in the mid-20th century combining polyethylene glycol with isostearic acid (a branched form of stearic acid). Created to provide stable, mild emulsification for modern cosmetic and personal care 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