murphySteareth-21
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Stearyl Polyethylene Glycol Ether
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginTypically derived from coconut or palm kernel oils through extraction of 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.
Removes Impurities
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Mixes Oil & Water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 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
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
1 study / 1 mixed (CIR 581)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.01–7%
Rinse-off0.04–5%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2012
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR