PEG-12 Diisostearate

PEG-12 Diisostearate is an ethoxylated diisostearic acid ester acting as a mild, nonionic surfactant and emulsifier. It disperses oils into water, improves rinse-off performance in cleansers, and helps pigment wetting in makeup and suncare.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
Helps lift makeup and sunscreen for an easy, comfortable rinse.
Category
Emulsifying, Cleansing, Skin Conditioning
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Boosts makeup and sunscreen removal, helping lift oils and debris with less rubbing. Leaves a comfortable, conditioned after-feel post cleanse.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in cleansing balms, oil-to-milk cleansers, and makeup removers for efficient rinse-off. Also found in liquid foundations and sunscreens to help pigments blend evenly throughout the formula.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Low overall irritation potential, but can cause stinging or mild irritation if it migrates into eyes or on compromised skin; rinse thoroughly in cleansers. No common regulatory restrictions reported for cosmetic use.

Is PEG-12 Diisostearate a Good Ingredient?

Rated Good because it effectively disperses oils and boosts cleanser and makeup-removal performance while remaining mild for most users. It falls short of a higher rating due to limited clinical skin benefits and the potential for mild irritation in very reactive skin, especially in leave-on formats.

Products with PEG-12 Diisostearate

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