murphySteareth-20
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Stearyl Polyethylene Glycol Ether, PEG Stearate
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginTypically derived from coconut or palm kernel oils and their fatty alcohols. Produced through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide is chemically bonded to stearyl alcohol.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy
CAS #
9005-00-9
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
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 a Sensitizer
6 studies / 6 not sensitizing (CIR 153 and 581)
Not Phototoxic
Product formulation test found no phototoxicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 153 and 581)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
7 studies / 5 irritating / 2 mixed / reactions minimal to moderate (CIR 153 and 581)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
14 studies / 6 irritating / 3 mixed / 5 not irritating / reactions minimal to mild (CIR 153 and 581)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.006–20%
Rinse-off0.007–3%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2010 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR