PEG-30 Stearate
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: PEG-40 Stearate, PEG-75 Stearate, Polyethylene Glycol
Made from polyethylene glycol and stearic acid | Has cleansing, emulsifying, suspending, and solubolizing properties
EWG Safety Score
What Is PEG-30 Stearate?
PEG-30 stearate is a blend of the binding and stabilizing ingredient polyethylene glycol and the fatty acid stearic acid. It has cleansing, suspending, emulsifying and solubolizing properties when used in cosmetics, all of which help other cosmetic ingredients work better.
Interestingly, PEG-30 stearate is among the least used PEG compounds. PEG-100 stearate is far more common, with the “100” referring to the molecular weight of the ingredient. So, for example, PEG 30 stearate weighs less than PEG-100 stearate.
This ingredient may be animal-derived or synthetic, and is considered safe as used in cosmetics, although standard use levels have not been firmly established (safety data on some PEG compounds examined concentrations up to 100% and found no cause for concern).
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Toxicological Research, June 2015, pages 105–136 [https://link.springer.com/article/10.5487/TR.2015.31.2.105]
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UL Prospector, Accessed August 2023 [https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na]
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SpecialChem, Accessed August 2023 [https://www.specialchem.com/cosmetics/inci-ingredients/peg-30-stearate]
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PEG-30 Stearate is a variant of PEG-100 Stearate, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Multitasking ingredient that can be used as an emulsifier/cleansing agent in cosmetic formulas | May also be utilized to deliver a soft, moisturised feel to skin, thanks to its emollient properties
Related Ingredients
PEG-100 Stearate
Multitasking ingredient that can be used as an emulsifier/cleansing agent in cosmetic formulas | May also be utilized to deliver a soft, moisturised feel to skin, thanks to its emollient properties
PEG-40 Stearate
Typically functions as a cleansing agent in skin care formulas | Can also be used as a thickener/texture enhancer or to help keep ingredients soluble
PEG-75 Stearate
A surfactant that helps stabilise and blend formulations, commonly used in sunscreens and cleansers
PEG-8 Stearate
A surfactant and emulsifier that helps blend oil and water-based ingredients
PEG-20 Stearate
A synthetic emulsifier that helps bind water and oil in skincare formulations
Acrylates Crosspolymer-4
A synthetic polymer that stabilises formulations and helps create smooth, consistent textures
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