murphySteareth-10
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: 30-Decaoxaoctatetracontan-1-ol
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from stearyl alcohol, typically sourced from vegetable oils like palm or coconut through hydrogenation. Synthesized by ethoxylation of stearyl alcohol with ethylene oxide to create a nonionic surfactant.
Poly(Oxy-1,2-Ethanediyl), .alpha.-Octadecyl-.omega.-Hydroxy
CAS #
9005-00-9, 13149-86-5
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Refatting
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.
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 153)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
3 studies / 1 irritating / 1 mixed / 1 not irritating / reactions mild (CIR 153 and 581)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.5–4%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2010 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR