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Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is used in Moisture Cream, Moisture Lotion, Body Butter, Cleanser, Face Mask, Skin Peels, Shower Gel, Shampoo, and Conditioner.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is used emulsifier in personal care/cosmetic products: e.g., lotions, creams, hair conditioners, skin care, eye products, deodorants.
CAS Number: 9005-00-9 / 2136-72-3 / 69980-69-4
EC Number: 500-017-8 / 218-374-0
Chem/IUPAC Name: 2-octadecoxyethanol
Categories: Cleansing Agent, pH Adjuster/Stabilizer
Chemical Formula: C20H42O2
Molecular Weight: 313.5383 g/mol
SYNONYMS:
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy, 2-octadecoxyethanol (peg-20), BRIJ S20, LIPOCOL S-20, PEG-20 STEARYL ETHER, POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL (20) STEARYL ETHER, POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 1000 STEARYL ETHER, POLYOXYETHYLENE (20) STEARYL ETHER, POLYOXYETHYLENE 20 STEARYL ETHER, POLYOXYL 20 STEARYL ETHER, POLYOXYL 20 STEARYL ETHER [USP-RS], STEARETH-20 [II], STEARETH-20 [INCI], STEARETH-20 [VANDF], Stearyl alcohol ethoxylate with 20 moles of ethylene oxide, Ethanol, 2-(2-(octadecyloxy)ethoxy)-, 2-(2-(Octadecyloxy)ethoxy)ethanol, 3,6,9,12,15,18,21-Heptaoxanonatriacontan-1-ol, Octadecyl polyoxyethylene ether, PEG-100 Stearyl ether, PEG-11 Stearyl ether, PEG-13 Stearyl ether, PEG-14 Stearyl ether, PEG-15 Stearyl ether, PEG-16 Stearyl ether, PEG-2 Stearyl ether, PEG-20 Stearyl ether, PEG-21 Stearyl ether, PEG-25 Stearyl ether, PEG-27 Stearyl ether, PEG-30 Stearyl ether, PEG-40 Stearyl ether, PEG-50 Stearyl ether, PEG-7 Stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (100) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (11) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (13) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (14) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (15) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (16) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (21) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (25) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (27) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (30) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (50) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol (7) stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol 1000 stearyl ether, Polyethylene glycol 2000 stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (100) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (11) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (13) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (14) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (15) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (16) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (2) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (20) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (21) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (25) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (27) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (30) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (40) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (50) stearyl ether, Polyoxyethylene (7) stearyl ether, Steareth-100, Steareth-11, Steareth-13, Steareth-14, Steareth-15, Steareth-16, Steareth-2, Steareth-20, Steareth-21, Steareth-25, Steareth-27, Steareth-30, Steareth-40, Steareth-50, Steareth-7, Polyethylene glycol monostearyl ether, Polyoxyethylated stearyl alcohol, Stearyl alcohol EO (10), Stearyl alcohol EO (20), Stearyl alcohol ethylene oxide (2), Stearyl alcohol, ethoxylated, Stereal alcohol EO (2), UNII-36ALR4705B, UNII-L0Q8IK9E08, Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), alpha-octadecyl-omega-hydroxy-, Stearyl alcohol condensed with 20 moles ethylene oxide, Stearyl alcohol condensed with l0 moles ethylene oxide, Stearyl alcohol, condensed with 2 moles ethylene oxide, Polyoxyethylene monooctadecyl ether, 2-(octadecyloxy)ethanol, [2-(octadecyloxy)ethyl]oxidanyl, Brij(R) 76, 2-(Octadecyloxy)ethanol, 2-Octadecoxyethanol, Ethanol, 2-(octadecyloxy)-, Ethylene glycol monooctadecyl ether, POE (10) stearyl alcohol ether, 2-(octadecyloxy) ethan-1-ol, Steareth-20, Steareth-21, Ethanol,2-(octadecyloxy)-, 2-Octadecyloxyethanol, 3-Oxahenicosane-1-ol, 2-(octadecyloxy) ethanol, 2-(octadecyloxy)-ethanol, 6-Tetrachloro-2-picoline, DSSTox_CID_9299, C18-alcohol polyethoxylate, AMTGC009, DSSTox_RID_78754, DSSTox_GSID_29299, Polyoxyl stearyl ether (NF), SCHEMBL490673, Ethoxylated Stearyl Alcohols 2, Polyoxyethylene(100) stearate, CHEMBL3181944, Ethoxylated Stearyl Alcohols 20, a,a,a,6-Tetrachloro-2-picoline, Polyethylene glycol stearyl ether, DTXSID60858842, DTXSID70891669, AMY36496, C20H42O2, Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy-, EINECS 218-374-0, Tox21_202772, MFCD00043351, ZINC56898840, AKOS015839820, AS-2008, HEXADECANOIC-7,7,8,8-D4ACID, NCGC00260319-01, DB-066492, BB 0256761, CS-0318307, FT-0682442, D08975, F20467, Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy-, phosphate, sodium salt, Steareth-20, Polyoxyethylene (20) stearyl ether, PEG-20 stearyl ether, 2-octadecoxyethanol, poly(oxyethylene) (20) stearyl ether, PEG stearyl ether, Brij S20, Brij 78, Lipocol S-20, Nikkol BS-20, Brij 78, Brij S20, Hetoxol STA-20, Lipocol S-20, Nikkol BS-20, 2-octadecoxyethanol (PEG-20), PEG-20 Stearyl Ether, Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy- (20 mol EO average molar ratio), Polyethylene Glycol (20) Stearyl Ether, Polyoxyethylene (20) Stearyl Alcohol Ether, Polyoxyethylene (20) Stearyl Ether, Polyoxyethylene 20 Stearyl Ether, VOLPO S-20
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is an ester of polyethyleneglycol and stearic acid, which is identified by the CAS number 9005-00-9.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is characterised by a number of unique properties that make it readily used in cosmetic formulations, mainly as a base ingredient.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is most commonly found as an O/W emulsifier, which enables the formation of emulsions.
Polyethylene glycol ethers of stearic acid make up the Steareth ingredients (Steareth-2, Steareth-4, Steareth-6, Steareth-7, Steareth-10, Steareth-11, Steareth-13, Steareth-15, and Steareth-20).
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) primarily functions as a surfactant and emulsifier in cosmetic products and is generally available as a waxy, solid material.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a high HLB, O/W emulsifier that works well in low viscosity systems and sprayable formulations.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is recommended formulators use in combination with a low HLB emulsifier.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a waxy solid material that helps oil and water to mix together, aka emulsifier.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is derived from the fatty alcohol called stearyl alcohol by ethoxylating it and thus making the molecule more water-soluble.
The end result is a mostly water-loving emulsifier, also called solubilizer that Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can help to dissolve small amounts of oil-loving ingredients into water-based products.
Or Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be combined with more oil-loving emulsifiers (such as its sister, Steareth-2) to create stable emulsions.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a hydrophilic, ether-type nonionic surfactant manufactured by addition polymerization of ethylene oxide to stearyl alcohol.
Emulsions with excellent stability over time and a good texture can be prepared.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is stable against acid and alkali.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is IECIC 2021 certified.
As regards the physical properties of Steareth-20 (Emulsifier), it is a waxy solid.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is characterised by its white or cream colour and lack of odour and taste.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a hygroscopic compound, which means that it absorbs moisture from the air.
Therefore Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) should be stored in a sealed container.
The melting point of Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) ranges from 55 to 60 oC.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is stable under a variety of conditions and does not break down when stored properly.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can also act as a rheology modifier in washing cosmetics.
Thanks to its properties, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) improves the consistency of the product while increasing its viscosity.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can also be found in, e.g., cosmetic make-up products (such as eye shadows, powders, mascaras), deodorants, toothpastes and shaving creams.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a non-ionic polyoxyethylene ether of higher saturated fatty alcohols (cetyl/stearyl alcohol).
HLB value of Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is 15-17 (gives oil-in-water emulsions).
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a derivative of the benign fatty ingredient stearyl alcohol.
In cosmetics, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) functions primarily as a surfactant but is also used to make products more stable, especially if they contain active ingredients in an emulsion.
Steareth ingredients may be animal-derived or synthetic.
They are prepared by interacting with the chemical intermediate gas ethylene oxide with stearyl alcohol, a process which forms an entirely new stable compound.
The number that comes after (for instance, 20) indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units used in the preparation.
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled that Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is safe as used in cosmetics in amounts up to 25%.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a versatile cosmetic ingredient with cleansing and emulsifying properties.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a good all round emulsifier which is compatible with a large range of oils.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) gives a good shine and silkiness to your finished product.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a white pellets of non-ionic polyoxyethylene ether of higher saturated fats (cetyl/stearyl alcohol).
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) has no odour and can be mixed with a wide variety of oils from fully natural to synthetic.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier), derived from stearyl alcohol and polyethylene glycol, plays a vital role in cosmetic formulations.
With a focus on purity and sustainability, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) serves as a key component for achieving stable blends of oil and water-based ingredients, enhancing product texture and overall performance.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a solid oil/water emulsifier intended for cosmetics.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is an ethoxylated stearyl alcohol with 20 moles of ethylene oxide, a waxy solid with a mild, characteristic odor (virtually odorless).
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a nonionic emulsifier for cosmetic oil-in-water and partially also for water-in-oil emulsions, with an HLB value of 15.3.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is suitable for skincare creams and lotions, deodorants, and antiperspirants.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is usually used with other emulsifiers and nonionic surfactants, as well as with most anionic, cationic, and ester surfactants.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a fully biodegradable ingredient.
Based on vegetable raw materials, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) provides stable emulsions over a wide pH range, emulsifying oils and fats in highly acidic or alkaline media.
In addition, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be used in combination with consistency-providing substances to form viscosity-enhancing gel structures in the external water phase.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a type of surfactant commonly used in skincare and cosmetic formulas as an emulsifier or a stabilizer.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a water-soluble substance produced from the reaction between ethylene oxide and stearyl alcohol.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is an emulsifier for oil-in-water emulsions and asolubilizer.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is useful in a wide range of personal care productsand cosmetics and is compatible with all types of oils and actives.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is very stable and has an HLB of about 14-16.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a synthetic polymer derived from ethoxylation.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is obtained from stearic acid and the number 20 denotes the average number of repeating ethylene glycol units.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is often used as a surfactant and an emulsifier.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is added to products to stabilize the formulations.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is considered safe to be used in personal care products.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a waxy solid material that helps oil and water to mix together, aka emulsifier.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is derived from the fatty alcohol, stearyl alcohol by ethoxylating it and thus making the molecule a little water-soluble.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) has only a small amount of ethoxylation and thus the molecule is still largely oil soluble.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is often mixed with more water-soluble emulsifiers (such as Steareth-20 (Emulsifier)) to create stable emulsion systems.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is one of the most researched and reviewed ingredients.
USES and APPLICATIONS of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Emulsifying Agent: Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) functions as an emulsifier, facilitating the formation of stable mixtures between water and oil phases in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Surfactant: Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) acts as a surfactant, reducing surface tension and enhancing the spreadability and efficacy of skincare formulations such as creams and lotions.
Thickener: Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can serve as a thickening agent, contributing to the desired viscosity and texture of cosmetic products like creams and gels.
Solubilizer: Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) aids in solubilizing insoluble substances in water-based formulations, ensuring uniform distribution of active ingredients in products like shampoos and body washes.
Stabilizer: Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) helps stabilize emulsions and prevent phase separation in cosmetic formulations, extending the shelf life and maintaining product integrity over time.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is used in Moisture Cream, Moisture Lotion, Body Butter, Cleanser, Face Mask, Skin Peels, Shower Gel, Shampoo, and Conditioner.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is used emulsifier in personal care/cosmetic products: e.g., lotions, creams, hair conditioners, skin care, eye products, deodorants.
Surfactant and solubiliser: Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) helps mix oil and water phases, helps incorporate small amounts of oil-soluble actives, fragrances or oils into aqueous systems.
Emulsion stabilizer: Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) prevents phase separation of emulsions (oil-in-water) and helps improve texture, spreadability of formulations.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is often used in combination with other emulsifiers (especially those favouring oil phase) to achieve desired emulsion properties.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be used in the creation of personal hygiene products, deodorants, fragrances, skin, eye, and hair products.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is used to facilitate mixing of oil and water phases (emulsification), solubilization of oil-soluble ingredients into aqueous systems, and stabilisation of cosmetic/emulsion systems.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a waxy solid under ambient conditions.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is widely used as an emulsifier and has strong emulsifying ability in various emulsification systems.
Typical use level of Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is 0.5-30% (range of 15-30% used to make gel-like brushable hydrates).
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is used for external use only.
Applications of Steareth-20 (Emulsifier): All kinds of emulsion-based cosmetic products like creams, lotions (especially sprayable lotions), foundations, hair conditioners, sunscreen products.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) functions as an O/W-emulsifier.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is suitable for skin care, deodorants, and antiperspirants.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) has excellent washing and wetting properties.
This facilitates contact between the washing solution and the surface to be washed as well as the removal of dirt from the hair or skin.
In addition, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be used to stabilise foam and improve foam quality in products such as shampoos, gels and soaps.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) mainly works as a surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer in cosmetics and personal care products.
The Steareth ingredients reduce the interactions between the molecules of other liquids when they are added to cosmetics and personal care products, causing an emulsion to form.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier)'s benefits are not limited to only cleansing.
As an emulsifier, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) facilitates the mixing of oil and water.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is created by ethoxylating the fatty alcohol stearyl alcohol, which increases the molecule’s water solubility.
The end result is an emulsifier-cum-solubilizer, that primarily prefers water and can help dissolve trace amounts of oil-loving ingredients into water-based products.
Or, to make stable emulsions, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be mixed with emulsifiers that prefer oil, like its sister Steareth-2.
In cosmetics, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) functions primarily as a surfactant but is also used to make products more stable, especially if they contain active ingredients in an emulsion.
In skincare, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can help mix oil-based and water-based ingredients, allowing for better absorption into the skin.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is often used in cleansers, lotions, and creams for its ability to improve the texture of the formulation, reduce the greasiness of products, and enhance their spreadability.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is commonly used as an emulsifier in cosmetic and personal care products.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) helps to mix ingredients that are not easily soluble in each other, such as oil and water, creating a uniform and stable texture.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can improve the spreadability and viscosity of creams, lotions and other formulations, making them easier to apply and absorb.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can also act as a solubilizer, allowing the incorporation of oil-soluble ingredients into water-based products.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products, and is used in a wide range of products including lotions, shampoos, and makeup.
CHEMICAL BEHAVIOUR / ADDITIONAL PROPERTIES of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
*Non‐ionic surfactant/emulsifier:
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a polyoxyethylene ether of stearyl alcohol; the “20” indicates the average number of ethylene oxide units.
*HLB value / emulsification character:
Some data (for similar compounds) list HLB ~15.3 (for example for an analogous Steareth-20 (Emulsifier)) — indicating high hydrophilicity and good for oil-in-water emulsions.
*Stability:
Generally stable under normal conditions; but like other ethoxylates, may undergo hydrolysis under strong acid or base, or may contain trace by-products such as 1,4-dioxane from ethoxylation process.
*Reactivity:
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) should be compatible with many formulation ingredients; but strong oxidisers may be incompatible.
CHARACTERISTICS of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a good all-round emulsifier to produce o/w emulsions which are compatible with a large range of oils.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be used alone or best combined with other emulsifiers to help stabilise the emulsion.
FUNCTION(S) of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER) IN COSMETIC PRODUCTS
*CLEANSING
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) cleans skin, hair or teeth
*SURFACTANT - CLEANSING
Surface-active agent to clean skin, hair and / or teeth
*SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) allows the formation of finely dispersed mixtures of oil and water (emulsions)
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
The chemical compound with the INCI name of Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a non-ionic surfactant.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) dissolves very well in water, oil and in ethanol as well.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) undergoes hydrolysis.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
1. Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) acts as an emulsifier.
2. Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) helps to stabilize formulations.
3. Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) improves the texture of cosmetics products.
4. Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) enhances the penetration of other ingredients.
5. Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can increase the cleansing capabilities of a product.
6. Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) reduces the surface tension of liquids.
7. Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) acts as a solubilizing agent for fragrances.
8. Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
9. Generally considered safe for use in cosmetics products.
BENEFITS of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) has the following benefits:
*Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) acts as a surfactant:
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is an effective surfactant as it reduces the surface tension between 2 liquids or a liquid and a solid.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) rids the skin of the oil, dirt and grime accumulated on the skin.
*Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) acts as an emulsifier:
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) keeps the oil-based components and water-based components together and prevents them from disintegrating into their individual constituents.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) makes the formulation stable.
CHARACTERISTICS & BENEFITS of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Because of its non-ionic nature and relatively high hydrophilicity (due to the PEG chain), Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) offers good compatibility with a wide range of ingredients and is less sensitive to ionic strength changes than ionic surfactants.
Waxy solid at ambient temps means Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can contribute to structure and body in formulations (e.g., creams) aside from emulsification.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) helps improve sensory feel (spreadability) and texture of cosmetic products.
Versatile: Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) works in oil-in-water emulsions; can help stabilise formulation across a range of pH (depending on composition) and in combination with other emulsifiers.
FUNCTIONS of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
*Emulsifier
*Cleansing agent
*Detergent
*Viscosity controlling agent
*Gelling agent
STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER) AT A GLANCE:
Derivative of fatty alcohol stearyl alcohol
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) functions as a surfactant and stabiliser
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) helps keep ingredients together in an emulsion
Deemed safe as used in cosmetics
PROPERTIES AND USE of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is characterised by its excellent emulsification capacity.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is readily used as an emulsifier that mediates between the oil phase and the water phase to stabilise and maintain an even distribution of the substance.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) will work well with both fatty and aqueous ingredients.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is used in different types of lotions, creams, conditioners and cosmetic and pharmaceutical emulsions.
WHY WE USE STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is derived from stearic acid, a fatty acid found naturally in many organisms.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be used for a variety of purposes, including as a cleansing surfactant, as an emulsifier holding oil and water phases together, or as an emulsion stabilizer keeping actives evenly dispersed in a formula.
This last purpose is how Stratia uses Steareth-20 (Emulsifier).
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is a well-known ingredient used as an emulsifier and a surfactant in personal care products.
BENEFITS of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Universal emulsifier to make o/w emulsions, compatible with all kinds of oils & active ingredients
Very effective protective colloid that stabilizes all kinds of dispersed systems
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be combined with other emulsifiers
Optimal use with gel-forming thickeners
SAFETY OF USE of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
According to a 2012 report drawn up by Cosmetic Ingredient Review experts,Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is safe for use in cosmetic products.
However, manufacturers should maintain the correct proportions in compositions.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can boost the intensity of other ingredients in a given preparation on the skin, so they should be selected with attention.
According to chemical regulations, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) as a pure substance is also classified as safe.
According to available sources, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) has been shown to be non-allergenic when used correctly, but bear in mind that the human body may react differently in certain cases.
Therefore, especially with sensitive skin, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is advisable to check the product label carefully and carry out additional sensitisation tests.
WHAT IS STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER) USED FOR?
Steareth-20 mainly works as a surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer in cosmetics and personal care products.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) ingredients reduce the interactions between the molecules of other liquids when they are added to cosmetics and personal care products, causing an emulsion to form.
Some personal care products' ingredients would separate out if an ingredient like Steareth was not added.
*Skin care:
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier)'s benefits are not limited to only cleansing.
As an emulsifier, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) facilitates the mixing of oil and water.
Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) is created by ethoxylating the fatty alcohol stearyl alcohol, which increases the molecule's water solubility.
The end result is an emulsifier-cum-solubilizer, that primarily prefers water and can help dissolve trace amounts of oil-loving ingredients into water-based products.
Or, to make stable emulsions, Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) can be mixed with emulsifiers that prefer oil, like its sister Steareth-2.
ORIGIN of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Alkaline catalysis is by far the most common method of manufacture of alkyl PEG ethers, although acid catalysis is known.
The initiation of the alkaline catalyzed synthesis of alkyl PEG ethers consists of the addition of ethylene oxide to a dry solution of the appropriate alcohol (e.g., stearyl alcohol is used to synthesize steareths) with an alkali earth metal (e.g., potassium hydroxide) or alkoxide (e.g., sodium methoxide).
The reaction continues to propagate (i.e., continues to add additional units of ethylene glycol to the alcohol) until the available ethylene oxide is consumed and/or the reaction is terminated by the addition of an acid (e.g., hydrochloric acid).
Dioxane (1,4-diethylene dioxide; 1,4-dioxane) is commonly formed as a byproduct.
Finally, a finishing step is commonly employed via the addition of one or more oxidizing agents (e.g., hydrogen peroxide) or antioxidants/stabilizers (e.g., butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) or α-tocopherol (vitamin E)).
WHAT DOES STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER) DO IN A FORMULATION?
*CLEANSING
*EMULSIFYING
*SURFACTANT
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded Steareth-20 (Emulsifier) to be safe for use in cosmetics up to 25%.
ALTERNATIVES of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
*LAURETH-4
*STEARETH-2
*RHAMNOLIPIDS
WHAT IS IT?
The Steareth ingredients (Steareth-2, Steareth-4, Steareth-6, Steareth-7, Steareth-10, Steareth-11, Steareth-13, Steareth-15, Steareth-20) are polyethylene glycol ethers of stearic acid.
They are waxy compounds.
In cosmetics and personal care products, Steareth ingredients are used in the formulation of personal cleanliness products and deodorants, as well as suntan, fragrance, skin, eye and hair products.
WHY IS IT USED?
When added to cosmetics and personal care products, the Steareth ingredients reduce the interactive forces between molecules of other liquids so that an emulsion is formed.
If an ingredient such as a Steareth is not added to some personal care products, the ingredients in the product would separate like some salad dressings.
SCIENTIFIC FACTS
The Steareths are prepared by reacting ethylene oxide with stearyl alcohol where the numerical value in the name corresponds to the average number of units of ethylene oxide.
For example, Steareth-2 is prepared using an average of 2 units of ethylene oxide reacted with stearyl alcohol.
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
Appearance: White to pale yellow petrolatum-like or waxy substance
Color: White
Form: Powder
Chemistry: Alkoxylated alcohols
Assay: 95.00 to 100.00
Food Chemicals Codex Listed: No
Boiling Point: 413.00 to 414.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg (est)
Flash Point: > 200.00 °F. TCC ( > 93.33 °C. )
logP (o/w): 7.966 (est)
Molecular Weight: 313.5383
Appearance: Solid
Colour: White
Odour: Odourless
pH: 9 - 11
Melting point/Range: Not available
Boiling Point/Range: Not available
Solubility in water: No information available
Other information: No information available
Appearance Form: Wax like
Color: white
Odor: No data available
Odor Threshold: No data available
pH: 6,0 - 7,5 at 30 g/l
Melting point/freezing point: No data available
Initial boiling point and boiling range: No data available
Flash point: Not applicable
Evaporation rate: No data available
Flammability (solid, gas): No data available
Upper/lower flammability or explosive limits: No data available
Vapor pressure: No data available
Vapor density: No data available
Density: No data available
Relative density: No data available
Water solubility: No data available
Partition coefficient: n-octanol/water: No data available
Autoignition temperature: No data available
Decomposition temperature: No data available
Viscosity
Viscosity, kinematic: No data available
Viscosity, dynamic: No data available
Explosive properties: No data available
Oxidizing properties: No data available
CAS Number: 9005-00-9
Additional CAS registered numbers: e.g., 2136-72-3, 69980-69-4
EC/EINECS Number: 500-017-8
INCI (cosmetic) name: Steareth-20
Chemical class: Alkoxylated fatty alcohol (stearyl alcohol ethoxylate) – a polyoxyethylene stearyl ether non-ionic surfactant/emulsifier.
Typical molecular formula / weight: Approximate/average formula varies because of PEG chain length; e.g., ChemicalBook lists C₅₈H₁₁₈O₂₁ for CAS 9005-00-9 with molecular weight ~1151.56 g/mol
Assay:95.00 to 100.00
Food Chemicals Codex Listed:No
Boiling Point:413.00 to 414.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg (est)
Flash Point:> 200.00 °F. TCC ( > 93.33 °C. )
logP (o/w):7.966 (est)
Appearance: Waxy solid; white to off-white, cream or waxy flakes/pellets.
Melting/Softening point: Reported ~48-53 °C by SpecialChem.
ChemicalBook lists ~56-60 °C.
Boiling point: Very high/estimated; e.g
Density / Specific gravity: ChemicalBook entry shows ~0.964 g/mL at 25 °C for that CAS entry.
Odour: Essentially bland or very mild / “virtually odorless” in many sources.
Solubility: Usually described as soluble in water, oils, ethanol (depending on chain length)
and miscible in many formulation systems; the PCC product portal notes it dissolves well in water, oil and ethanol.
Hygroscopicity / stability: The PCC portal notes that it is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture) and should be stored sealed
FIRST AID MEASURES of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
-Description of first aid measures:
*Contact with eyes:
Remove contact lenses, if present.
Wash immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, opening the eyelids fully.
*Contact with skin:
Remove contaminated clothing.
Wash immediately with plenty of water.
*Ingestion:
Get medical advice/attention.
*Inhalation:
Remove to open air.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed:
No information available
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
-Environmental precautions:
Do not allow to escape into ground, drains, sewage system, surface or ground waters.
-Methods and material for containment and cleaning up:
Make sure the leakage site is well aired.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
-Extinguishing media
*Suitable extinguishing media:
The extinguishing equipment should be of the conventional kind: carbon dioxide,
foam,
powder and water spray.
*Unsuitable extinguishing media: None in particular.
-Advice for firefighters
*General information:
Use jets of water to cool the containers to prevent product decomposition and the development of substances potentially hazardous for health.
Always wear full fire prevention gear.
Collect extinguishing water to prevent it from draining into the sewer system.
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
-Control parameters:
No information available
-Exposure controls:
Provide an emergency shower with face and eye wash station.
*Hand protection:
Work glove material must be chosen according to the use process and the products that may form.
*Skin protection:
Wear category I professional long-sleeved overalls and safety footwear.
Wash body with soap and water after removing protective clothing.
HANDLING and STORAGE of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
-Precautions for safe handling:
Before handling the product, consult all the other sections of this material safety data sheet.
Do not eat, drink or smoke during use.
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Store only in the original container
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of STEARETH-20 (EMULSIFIER):
-Reactivity:
Stable under normal conditions.
-Chemical stability:
Stable under normal temperature conditions and recommended use.
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No hazardous reactions if stored and handled as prescribed/indicated.
-Conditions to avoid:
None in particular.
-Incompatible materials:
No information available
-Hazardous decomposition products:
No data available
