Ingredient
Steareth-21
What is Steareth-21?
Steareth-21 is a non-ionic surfactant commonly used as an emulsifier. It is derived from the fatty alcohol stearyl alcohol and ethoxylated with 21 units of ethylene oxide. This process makes it effective in helping to blend oil and water components in formulations.
In cosmetics, Steareth-21 is valued for its ability to stabilize and improve the texture of creams and lotions. There is limited evidence regarding its health impacts, but it is generally considered safe for use in skincare products when formulated correctly. Some concerns have been raised about the presence of trace amounts of potentially harmful impurities from its ethoxylation process, like 1,4-dioxane, but these are usually monitored and controlled.
When you see Steareth-21 on a label, it's primarily functioning to maintain the consistency of a product, and its presence is quite common in makeup and skincare formulations.
Commonly found in: moisturizers, foundations, sunscreens, conditioners, body lotions, face creams
What to watch
- Steareth-21 can potentially be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of ethoxylation, but manufacturers often remove these impurities.
Benefits
- Effective at stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions, improving product texture and application.
Steareth-21 is not specifically regulated by the FDA but falls under the category of cosmetic ingredients generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
Research shows it is effective as an emulsifier, though there are occasional concerns about residual contaminants from production processes.
Steareth-21 is typically synthetic or derived from vegetable sources, but sourcing is key in determining its vegan status.
Scout's take
Steareth-21 is an emulsifier used to stabilize formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. It does not have significant risks or benefits.
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with Steareth-21.
from the analysis of Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body and Face Lotion Retinol Face and Body Lotion with Peptide ComplexThe case for
It helps in stabilizing cosmetic formulations.
from the analysis of Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body and Face Lotion Retinol Face and Body Lotion with Peptide ComplexFound in 1 product
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