Poly(ethylene glycol) (n) distearate is a polyethylene glycol ester derived from stearic acid and PEG. It is commonly used as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, dispersing agent, and formulation stabilizer in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.
Synonyms and related names: PEG distearate, polyethylene glycol distearate, PEG stearate surfactant, PEG ester emulsifier.
Because poly(ethylene glycol) distearates contain both hydrophilic polyethylene glycol segments and hydrophobic stearate chains, they are widely used to stabilize emulsions, improve texture, enhance dispersion, and support formulation consistency in aqueous and oil-based systems.
PEG distearates are frequently incorporated into creams, lotions, shampoos, topical formulations, specialty lubricants, and industrial formulations where emulsification and stabilization properties are important.
Key Properties
- Nonionic surfactant and emulsifier
- Polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid
- Supports oil-in-water emulsion formation
- Useful as a dispersing and stabilizing agent
- Compatible with many cosmetic and industrial systems
- Widely used in personal care and formulation chemistry
Applications
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Poly(ethylene glycol) distearate is commonly used in creams, lotions, shampoos, cleansers, and conditioners to support emulsification, improve texture, and stabilize formulations.
Pharmaceutical Formulations
PEG distearates may be incorporated into topical and pharmaceutical formulations as solubilizers, stabilizers, emulsifiers, and dispersing agents.
Industrial Formulations
PEG distearate materials are used in specialty industrial applications requiring surfactants, wetting agents, and emulsion stabilization.
Lubricants & Specialty Systems
The amphiphilic structure of PEG distearate supports lubrication, dispersion, and surface interaction in specialty chemical formulations.
Functional Characteristics
- Contains hydrophilic polyethylene glycol segments
- Contains hydrophobic stearate chains
- Supports emulsion stabilization and dispersion
- Useful in aqueous and oil-containing systems
Final formulation performance depends on concentration, formulation composition, temperature, pH, and compatibility with other ingredients.
Preparation Tips
- Incorporate gradually during formulation preparation
- Optimize concentration based on desired viscosity and stability
- Evaluate compatibility with surfactants and oils
- Perform formulation stability testing during development
Handling & Storage
- Store in a cool, dry environment
- Keep container tightly sealed when not in use
- Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat and moisture
- Follow standard laboratory and industrial handling procedures
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FAQ
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1. What is poly(ethylene glycol) distearate used for?
Poly(ethylene glycol) distearate is commonly used as an emulsifier, surfactant, dispersing agent, and stabilizer in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations.
2. What type of surfactant is PEG distearate?
PEG distearate is a nonionic surfactant containing hydrophilic polyethylene glycol segments and hydrophobic stearate chains.
3. Why is PEG distearate used in cosmetics?
PEG distearate helps stabilize emulsions, improve texture, support dispersion, and enhance consistency in creams, lotions, shampoos, and personal care products.
4. Is poly(ethylene glycol) distearate compatible with aqueous systems?
Yes. The polyethylene glycol backbone contributes hydrophilic properties that support compatibility with aqueous and emulsion-based systems.
5. Where can I buy poly(ethylene glycol) distearate?
Polysciences supplies poly(ethylene glycol) distearate materials for formulation chemistry, surfactant systems, cosmetics, pharmaceutical research, and industrial applications.
Safety & Documentation
Follow standard laboratory and industrial safety procedures when handling PEG distearate materials. Refer to the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete handling, storage, and safety information.
