What is PEG-100 Stearate?
Polyethylene glycol-100 stearate is a polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid. A nonionic surfactant, it's used as an emollient, emulsifier, and surfactant in in food, drugs, and cosmetics.
Is PEG-100 Stearate Safe?
Polyethylene Glycol-100 stearate is an ethoxylated chemical, meaning that it's created using the carcinogen ethylene oxide, traces of which, and its carcinogenic by-product 1-4,dioxane can remain in the product.
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Is PEG-100 Stearate Vegan?
Polyethylene Glycol -100 stearate may or may not be vegan. One of its source inputs, stearic acid, can be animal-derived.
What types of products contain PEG-100 Stearate?
It's found in conditioners, lotions, sunscreens, hair color, mascara and other color cosmetics, body washes, hair products, and skin care.
Bottom line
Polyethylene Glycol-100 Stearate can be derived from natural sources like coconut, but the processing is anything but natural, and it can contain traces of carcinogens.