PEG-150 Distearate

PEG-150 Distearate is a nonionic surfactant/thickener used at low percentages (typically ~0.5–5%) to stabilize and build viscosity in cleansers and lotions. Clinical patch-test data and broad consumer use suggest it is generally well-tolerated, but as a PEG-based surfactant derivative it can contribute to irritation in compromised skin—especially in rinse-off systems where total surfactant load is higher. For severe sensitivities or eczema-prone patients, I score it as gentle rather than very gentle due to cumulative irritation risk in real-world routines. Safety Notes: PEG-150 Distearate is used primarily as a nonionic thickener/viscosity builder and foam stabilizer in rinse-off systems (shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers), where it can be present at low levels (~0.1–0.5%) to fine-tune viscosity and pearl/cream texture. Mainstream mass-market cleansers commonly sit around ~0.5–3% depending on surfactant load, while high-viscosity, high-pearling or sulfate-free/thickened specialty washes available to consumers can use it at elevated levels (up to ~8–10%) as a primary structurant; it is less common in leave-on products due to feel and waxy structuring effects, so the upper end is largely observed in rinse-off formulations.