PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate NEW

PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate is a synthetic, polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based derivative used primarily in cosmetics and personal care products. Its name provides a clue to its structure and function:

• Glyceryl Triisostearate: This is the oil-soluble (lipophilic) part. It is derived from glycerin and isostearic acid, a branched-chain fatty acid. This structure gives it excellent emollient properties and prevents it from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth, spreadable texture.

  PEG-20: This is the water-soluble (hydrophilic) part. It signifies that the molecule has been ethoxylated, meaning it has been reacted with an average of 20 units of ethylene oxide. This process (PEGylation) attaches a water-soluble chain to the oil-soluble base.

The combination of these two parts creates a non-ionic surfactant (surface-active agent) that can bridge oil and water, making it an effective emulsifier and solubilizer.

Key Functions and Properties

1. Emulsifier: Its primary role is to create stable oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. It reduces the surface tension between oil and water phases, allowing them to mix and form a uniform, stable product that won't separate. This is essential for lotions, creams, and milky serums.

2. Solubilizer: It is exceptionally good at solubilizing hydrophobic (oil-soluble) materials into water-based formulations. This is crucial for incorporating fragrances, essential oils, and certain active ingredients into clear gels, toners, and cleansers without making them cloudy.

3. Cleansing Agent & Foam Booster: It acts as a mild surfactant that helps to remove oil and dirt from the skin and hair. It contributes to creating a stable, rich, and creamy lather in products like facial cleansers, shampoos, and body washes.

4. Emollient: The lipid portion of the molecule provides a smooth, silky skin feel without a heavy or greasy residue. It can help to soften and smooth the skin.

5. Viscosity Modifier: It can influence the thickness and rheology (flow) of a formula, helping to achieve a desirable, creamy consistency.

Common Applications

You will find PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate in a wide variety of rinse-off and leave-on products, including:

• Skin Cleansers: Makeup removers (especially for long-wear or waterproof products), facial washes, cleansing milks.

  Hair Care: Shampoos, conditioners, hair masks.

  Moisturizers: Lotions and creams.

  Sunscreens: Helps to solubilize UV filters and stabilize the emulsion.

  Decorative Cosmetics: Certain liquid makeups.

Safety

PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has a low risk of skin irritation and is not a significant sensitizer. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed similar PEGylated glycerides as safe for use in cosmetic products. As with any ingredient, individual sensitivity can vary, but it is widely regarded as a mild and well-tolerated workhorse ingredient in formulation chemistry.