Steareth 16

1. Definition Steareth 16:

Steareth-16 is a polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol, which is a fatty alcohol derived from stearic acid. It is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products as an emulsifier, surfactant, and skin conditioning agent.

2. Use:

Steareth-16 is primarily used in cosmetics as an emulsifying agent to help blend oil and water-based ingredients together. It also functions as a surfactant, helping to reduce the surface tension of liquids and improve the spreadability of products. Additionally, Steareth-16 acts as a skin conditioning agent, helping to soften and smooth the skin.

3. Usage Steareth 16:

Steareth-16 is found in a variety of cosmetic products such as creams, lotions, serums, and cleansers. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, but some individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation or allergic reactions. It is important to patch test products containing Steareth-16 before applying them to larger areas of the skin. As with any cosmetic ingredient, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and consult a dermatologist if any adverse reactions occur.

4. References:

- "Steareth-16" Cosmeticsinfo.org, Personal Care Products Council, www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/steareth-16

- "Steareth-16" Truth In Aging, www.truthinaging.com/ingredients/steareth-16

- "Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Compounds" U.S. Food and Drug Administration, www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/polyethylene-glycol-peg-compounds