Polyoxyl 40 Stearate

Polyoxyl 40 Stearate is a polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid, classified as a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier for personal care. It's chosen to combine oil and water phases, stabilize creams and lotions, and improve spreadability.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that gives creams a smooth, consistent texture.
Category
Emulsifying
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Promotes a uniform, creamy texture so products glide on evenly. Helps keep formulas homogenous for a consistent user experience.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in lotions, creams, and sunscreens to create stable emulsions. Also used in milky cleansers and makeup products for smooth application.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Typically low irritation at standard use levels; may cause mild stinging if used near eyes or in high concentrations. No common cosmetic market restrictions noted for general use.

Is Polyoxyl 40 Stearate a Good Ingredient?

It's a well-established nonionic emulsifier that reliably stabilizes oil-in-water systems and improves spread, with a long track record of skin compatibility in leave-on products, solid enough for a Good rating.

Products with Polyoxyl 40 Stearate

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