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PEG-8 DISTEARATE

Last update on Aug 26, 2025

PEG-8 Distearate is a phenomenal behind-the-scenes ingredient having emulsifying and conditioning properties. It is widely used in moisturizers, creams, and shampoos, where it helps combine oil and water-based ingredients into a stable blend. It prevents a product's disintegration and makes it last longer. As a texture enhancer, PEG-8 Distearate gives a smooth, rich, and velvety feel to personal care formulations. When added to cleansers, it mixes oil and dirt present on the surface of skin and hair with water - to effectively rinse it off. PEG-8 Distearate appears as an off-white to pale yellow waxy solid in its raw form. It can be combined with other hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to multiply its effectiveness as an emollient. The chemical formula of PEG-8 Distearate is C38H76O10.

CAS Number: 9005-08-7Chem/IUPAC Name: Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-(1-oxooctadecyl)-.omega.-[(1-oxooctadecyl)oxy]- (8 mol EO average molar ratio)EINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 77379

Products with PEG-8 DISTEARATE

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HallStar® PEG 400 DS MB

by Hallstar

INCI: PEG-8 DISTEARATE
  • Sustainable option

What is PEG-8 DISTEARATE used for?

With its ability to emulsify and cleanse, Peg-8 Distearate is considered a powerful ingredient in both skin and hair care formulations. It is commonly added to cleansers, lotions, creams, shampoos, and conditioners. 

In skin care: Peg-8 Distearate ensures a smooth, non-greasy texture in skin care products and enhances product spreadability. Its mild cleansing and conditioning properties leave the skin feeling soft, refreshed, and hydrated - without being too stripping or drying. 

In hair care: Peg-8 Distearate lifts impurities from the scalp and hair, allowing them to be rinsed off easily with water. For conditioning, it works best when combined with other humectants like glycerin. Additionally, Peg-8 Distearate maintains the consistency of shampoos and conditioners for better performance and shelf life.

Origin

To make Peg-8 Distearate, ethylene oxide is first reacted with water or ethylene glycol to produce PEG-8. This is then esterified with stearic acid - derived from coconut or palm oil - to form Peg-8 Distearate. Though partly plant-based, PEG-8 Distearate is considered a synthetic ingredient due to the chemical modifications involved in its production. The final ingredient is purified before use in cosmetics.

What does PEG-8 DISTEARATE do in a formulation?

EMULSIFYING|
CLEANSING|
EMOLLIENT|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
HAIR CONDITIONING

Safety Profile

Peg-8 Distearate is a safe ingredient for topical use in cosmetics. It has a low hazard rating on the EWG scale, indicating minimal risk of irritation or sensitization. However, it may contain trace impurities like 1,4-dioxane if not purified properly during the manufacturing process. Additionally, Peg-8 Distearate is normally vegan and halal, but it depends on the raw material sourcing and production methods.

PEG-8 DISTEARATE alternatives

PEG-8 DISTEARATE technical profile

PropertyValues

Boiling Point

495.30°C

Melting Point

45°C - 50°C

pH

5.5 - 7.5

Solubility

Soluble in water; dispersible in oil

Viscosity

Low to medium