PEG-40 Stearate

PEG-40 Stearate is a cosmetic ingredient used as a surfactant - emulsifying, surfactant - cleansing agent. It is used in 378 products in our dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex).

INCI namePEG-40 STEARATE
FunctionSURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING
CAS number9004-99-3
Prevalence378 products (0.41% of dataset)
Most used inSkincare
EU statusRestricted (annex )
Monthly searches50

Used in

General Moisturizers 18%Sunscreens 11.6%Body Lotions 9.3%Prescription 9.3%Eye Moisturizers 6.3%Face Cleansers 5.3%

Frequently asked

What does PEG-40 Stearate do in skincare?
PEG-40 Stearate functions as a surfactant - emulsifying, surfactant - cleansing agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is PEG-40 Stearate allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain PEG-40 Stearate?
It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially general moisturizers (18% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using PEG-40 Stearate

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.