PEG-100 Stearate

peg wun-HUN-dred STEER-ate

Emulsifier 7/10 Safety Not CGControversial Synthetic Vegan

What Is PEG-100 Stearate?

A PEG-based emulsifier derived from stearic acid. It helps create stable, creamy emulsions in conditioners and hair treatments.

Source: Stearic acid with polyethylene glycol

Origin: Synthetic

Also known as: Polyethylene Glycol 100 Stearate

What Does PEG-100 Stearate Do to Your Hair?

Acts as a primary emulsifier to create smooth, stable oil-in-water emulsions. Often paired with glyceryl stearate for optimal emulsification. Contributes to creamy product textures.

Best For

All hair types

Not Recommended For

Sensitive scalp (PEG sensitivity)

Concentration Matters

1-4% in products

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Avoid
CG Avoid

Safety & Regulation

7/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Generally considered safe though PEG compounds carry the theoretical risk of 1,4-dioxane contamination. Quality manufacturers purify to remove this impurity. May not be ideal for very sensitive skin.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics. PEG compounds require proper purification during manufacturing.

EWG Score: 3/10

HairAide Verdict

A functional emulsifier with the typical PEG-related caveats. Safe from reputable brands that properly purify their PEG ingredients. Not the cleanest but not a major concern.

Products That Contain PEG-100 Stearate

Conditioners, hair masks, styling creams, rinse-out treatments

Alternatives to PEG-100 Stearate

If you want to avoid PEG-100 Stearate, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Glyceryl Stearate, Ceteareth-20, Sorbitan Oleate

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PEG-100 Stearate safe for hair?

Yes, PEG-100 Stearate has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Generally considered safe though PEG compounds carry the theoretical risk of 1,4-dioxane contamination. Quality manufacturers purify to remove this impurity. May not be ideal for very sensitive skin.

Is PEG-100 Stearate bad for curly hair?

PEG-100 Stearate is not CG-method approved. Curly hair types may want to avoid this ingredient or use products containing it sparingly.

Is PEG-100 Stearate CG-method approved?

No, PEG-100 Stearate is not approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of PEG-100 Stearate?

Some alternatives to PEG-100 Stearate include: Glyceryl Stearate, Ceteareth-20, Sorbitan Oleate

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