Steareth-20

Steareth-20 is a nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer produced by ethoxylating stearyl alcohol with an average of 20 ethylene oxide units, yielding a white, waxy solid with an HLB of about 15.3 that readily dissolves in water and disperses oil phase ingredients. It stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions by reducing interfacial tension, improves texture and spreadability, and can be combined with more lipophilic emulsifiers for enhanced stability. With excellent skin compatibility and low irritancy, it is used at 1–5% in creams, lotions, cleansers, sunscreens, and makeup to provide uniform, non-greasy formulations and gentle cleansing.