Quick answer
An ester of the fatty acid isostearic acid combined with polyethylene glycol and glycerin; May be animal-derived or synthetic; Commonly used as an emulsifier and mild cleansing agent; Noted for offering skin-softening properties Key benefits: Hydration.
Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate
Updated
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.,.alpha.’,.alpha.’’-1,2,3-propanetriyltris-.omega.-[(1-oxo-16-methylheptadecyl))oxy]-, (20 mol EO average molar ratio)
Purpose
PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is an ester of the fatty acid isostearic acid combined with polyethylene glycol and glycerin.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Cleansing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifier
INCI Purpose
SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING
Benefits
Alternative Names
At a Glance
An ester of the fatty acid isostearic acid combined with polyethylene glycol and glycerin
May be animal-derived or synthetic
Commonly used as an emulsifier and mild cleansing agent
Noted for offering skin-softening properties
Article
PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is an ester of the fatty acid isostearic acid combined with polyethylene glycol and glycerin. It may be animal-derived or synthetic (Paula’s Choice uses the latter). It is commonly used as an emulsifier and mild cleansing agent, where it’s often seen in oil-based formulas due to its ability to help oily ingredients rinse from skin without leaving a greasy residue. It is noted for offering skin-softening properties as well.
Some suppliers report this surfactant works very well to cleanse particulate matter (a form of airborne pollutants) from skin.
In rinse-off products, such as facial cleansers or body washes, PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is used up to 20% concentration. For leave-on formulations, such as moisturizers and sunscreens, it typically tops out at 5%.
This ingredient has undergone extensive toxicology review and is considered non-irritating and safe as used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate’s high molecular weight keeps it from penetrating past skin’s surface.
See: Glycerin, Isostearic Acid, Polyethylene Glycol
References