PEG/PPG-8/3 Diisostearate

AKA: Diisostearate copolymer, Silicone emollient
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Clean
PEG/PPG-8/3 Diisostearate is the polyethylene glycol ether of the propoxylated diester of isostearic acid containing an average ethoxylation value of 8 and propoxylation value of 3.
CAS #
-
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier developed in the mid-20th century by combining polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) polymers with fatty acid derivatives. Created to solubilize oils and improve texture in cosmetic formulations without natural precedent.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
CANADApermitted
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
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