STEARETH-10
STEARETH-10
Steareth-10 is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from ethoxylated stearyl alcohol, commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products to stabilize emulsions, enhance foam production, and improve texture.
Steareth-10 is known for its mildness, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations such as lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and body washes.
Steareth-10 is water-soluble, biodegradable, and generally considered safe for use in personal care products.
CAS Number: 13149-86-5
EC Number: 500-203-8
Molecular Formula: C38H78O11
Molecular Weight: 711.02
Synonyms: Acrosol OT100, Adekacol EC 4500, Aerosol OT, Aerosol OT 75PG, Aerosol OT-A, Aerosol OT-S, AerosolOT-B, Airrol CT 1, AOT 100, Astrowet O 75, Bis(2-ethylhexyl) sodiumsulfosuccinate, Carabon DA 72, Celanol DOS 75, Colace, Complemix, Coprol, Correctol Stool Softener Laxative, Di(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate sodium salt, dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate, Dioctyl-Medo Forte, Disponil SUS-IC 875, Docusate sodium, DOSS, DSS, Lutensit A-BOS, M 75, Mackanate DOS 75, Manoxol OT, Marlinat DF 8, Miconate DOS, Modane Soft, Molatoc, Molcer, Molofac, Monawet MO 70, Monawet MO 70E, SINONATE 290MH, Sodium di sulfosuccinate, Sodium diisooctylsulfosuccinate, Sodium Dioctyl sulfosuccinate, 3,6,9,12,15,18,21,24,27,30-Decaoxaoctatetracontan-1-ol, 13149-86-5, 2-[2-[2-[2-[2-[2-[2-[2-[2-(2-octadecoxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethoxy]ethanol, Brij-76, SCHEMBL2125081, DTXSID80927226, Ethanol, 2-(2-(2-(2-(2-(2-(2-(2-(2-(2-(octadecyloxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)-, 3,6,9,12,15,18,21,24,27,30-Decaoxaoctatetracontan-1-ol, Octadecan-1-ol, Ethoxylated, PEG-10 Stearyl Ether, Polyethylene Glycol 500 Stearyl Ether, Polyoxyethylene (10) Stearyl Ether, Polyoxyethylene Monooctadecyl Ether, Steareth-10 (INCI), PEG-10 stearyl ether, PEG 500 stearyl ether, POE (10) stearyl alcohol, POE (10) stearyl ether Stearyl alcohol EO (10)
Steareth-10 is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from ethoxylated stearyl alcohol.
Steareth-10 is commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products for its ability to stabilize emulsions, enhance foam production, and improve the texture of formulations.
Steareth-10 helps blend oil and water-based ingredients, allowing for a smooth and consistent product.
Steareth-10 is known for its mildness, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations such as lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and body washes.
Additionally, Steareth-10 acts as a solubilizer for oils, fragrances, and active ingredients, promoting better formulation stability and performance.
Steareth-10 is water-soluble, biodegradable, and generally considered safe for use in personal care products.
Steareth-10 is the polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol with an average of 10 repeating units of ethylene glycol.
Steareth-10 is an emulsifier useful in oil-in-water emulsions that can be combined with other surfactants to achieve any required HLB.
Steareth-10 is useful in a wide range of personal care products and cosmetics and is compatible with all types of oils and actives.
Since Steareth-10 is a completely saturated solid material, it is very stable and has an HLB of about 11.5-13.5.
Steareth-10 is a polyethylene glycol ether of Stearyl Alcohol (q.v.).
Steareth-10 is the INCI name for a surfactant whose structure belongs to the group of commonly used derivatives of ethoxylated fatty alcohols.
Steareth-10’s precursor is a high molecular weight alcohol of natural origin, that is mostly present in vegetables.
Chemically, Steareth-10 is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohols which are ethoxylated with ten moles of ethylene oxide.
Steareth-10 meets all the strict quality requirements set out in the European Pharmacopoeia which are defined on account of the pharmacy code.
Thus Steareth-10 is classified as part of the Macrogol Cetostearyl Ether group.
Moreover, Steareth-10 is safe for use in cosmetic formulations without any restrictions.
The CAS number allowing for the global identification of Steareth-10 is 68439-49-6.
Basic physical and chemical properties of Steareth-10:
Under normal conditions of room temperature (approx. 25oC), Steareth-10 is a white solid whose consistency resembles wax.
Due to the form of the substance, Steareth-10 is most advantageous to use hot water in order to convert the substance to a more liquid form, when preparing a solution.
When using the Hazen platinum-cobalt scale, the colour of Steareth-10 does not exceed 30 points.
The cloud point, which is characteristic for surfactants, is 72-76oC for a 1% aqueous solution of Steareth-10.
At this temperature, Steareth-10 is insoluble in water, so the solution becomes clouded.
For non-ionic substances, the temperature increases depending on the ethoxylation degree in the structure.
Above this temperature, van der Waals forces make the solution separate into two phases – the organic phase, which is thick and rich with the surfactant, and the aqueous phase with a much lower content of the active substance.
The environment that results from the preparation of a 1% aqueous solution of Steareth-10 ranges from slightly acidic to neutral (5.0-7.0).
The structure of Steareth-10 makes it an excellent emulsifier, i.e. a chemical compound which makes it possible to form an emulsion.
Steareth-10 enables the water and oil phases to combine.
Steareth-10 is an oil-in-water emulsifier; which means that oil molecules are surrounded by water molecules and that liquid molecules do not combine with each other or attract each other but remain dispersed in the emulsion.
The hydrophile-lipophile balance which shows the polarity degree of surfactants is 13 for Steareth-10.
This value means that Steareth-10 stabilises O/W (oil-in-water) emulsions, as it is a hydrophilic emulsifier.
The activity of Steareth-10 does not deteriorate as the hardness of water increases or when electrolytes are added, but it is sensitive to changes inthe pH reaction of the environment.
As the biodegradability of Steareth-10 is compliant with the biodegradability criteria laid out in Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004 on detergents, the substance is considered to be fully biodegradable.
Steareth-10 is registered under the REACH Regulation and is manufactured in and / or imported to the European Economic Area, at ≥ 1 000 tonnes per annum.
Steareth-10 is used by consumers, in articles, by professional workers (widespread uses), in formulation or re-packing, at industrial sites and in manufacturing.
The Steareth ingredients are polyethylene glycol ethers of stearic acid.
They are waxy compounds.
In cosmetics and personal care products, Steareth-10 are used in the formulation of personal cleanliness products and deodorants, as well as suntan, fragrance, skin, eye and hair products.
Stearyl alcohol ethoxylated with 10 moles of ethylene oxide emulsifying and lubricating substance.
Steareth-10 is a co-emulsifier oil-in-water, typically combined with Arlatone 983.
Steareth-10 is used in skin care, hair care, toiletries and decorative cosmetics.
Steareth-10; Stearyl Alcohol, Polyethyleneglycol Ether (on average 10 units of -CH2-CH2-O-)
Steareth-10 is the polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol with an average of 10 repeating units of ethylene glycol.
Steareth-10 is an emulsifier useful in oil-in-water emulsions that can be combined with other surfactants to achieve any required HLB.
Steareth-10 is useful in a wide range of personal care products and cosmetics and is compatible with all types of oils and actives.
Since Steareth-10 is a completely saturated solid material, it is very stable and has an HLB of about 11.5-13.5.
Steareth-10 acts as a non-ionic emulsifying wax.
Steareth-10 used in skin care creams, lotions, sun care, baby creams, lotions, depilatories, antiperspirants/ deodorants and color cosmetics.
Steareth-10 is also applicable for hair conditioners, hair styling, eye care, feet, hands, nails, hair bleaches, chemical relaxers/straighteners and hair colorants.
Steareth-10 is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier commonly used in a wide range of cosmetic and personal care formulations.
Steareth-10 is derived from the ethoxylation of stearyl alcohol, which involves the addition of ethylene oxide to stearyl alcohol molecules to form a compound with a hydrophilic (water-attracting) portion and a lipophilic (oil-attracting) portion.
This chemical structure gives Steareth-10 its ability to act as both an emulsifier and a surfactant.
As an emulsifier, Steareth-10 plays a crucial role in stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions.
Steareth-10 helps mix water-based and oil-based ingredients, ensuring a smooth, uniform texture in products like lotions, creams, shampoos, and conditioners.
By reducing the surface tension between different substances, Steareth-10 promotes the formation of fine emulsions, preventing the separation of ingredients over time.
Steareth-10’s emulsifying properties make it particularly useful in the formulation of products that require the combination of hydrophobic (water-insoluble) and hydrophilic (water-soluble) substances.
Additionally, Steareth-10 enhances the foaming properties of products such as body washes, shampoos, and bubble baths.
Steareth-10 helps create stable, rich lather that improves the sensory experience during use.
Steareth-10 can also act as a solubilizer, enabling the dissolution of oils, fragrances, and active ingredients into water-based solutions.
This solubilizing ability is essential for creating clear, transparent formulations that may include essential oils or other oily actives.
Known for its mildness, Steareth-10 is considered suitable for sensitive skin formulations.
Steareth-10 is often included in products designed for delicate skin or those intended for babies, such as mild shampoos, body washes, and moisturizers.
Steareth-10’s gentle profile is less likely to irritate the skin compared to some harsher surfactants.
In addition to its functional benefits, Steareth-10 is also valued for its biodegradability, which reduces its environmental impact.
Steareth-10 is water-soluble and relatively stable in various pH ranges, making it compatible with a wide array of cosmetic formulations.
Steareth-10 is generally considered safe for use in personal care products, with low potential for skin irritation.
However, as with any ingredient, some individuals may be sensitive, so Steareth-10 is important to follow recommended usage levels.
In summary, Steareth-10 is a versatile and effective ingredient widely used in cosmetic formulations.
Steareth-10 not only improves the texture, stability, and performance of products but also offers benefits such as mildness and biodegradability, making it a popular choice for a variety of personal care applications.
Uses of Steareth-10:
Steareth-10 is a versatile and widely used ingredient in personal care and cosmetic products, known for its properties as an emulsifier, surfactant, and solubilizer.
Steareth-10 plays a key role in stabilizing emulsions in products like lotions, creams, and shampoos by helping to blend water and oil-based ingredients seamlessly.
Steareth-10’s ability to enhance foaming and create stable, rich lather makes it an ideal ingredient in body washes, facial cleansers, and shaving products.
In hair care, Steareth-10 helps distribute conditioning agents evenly while maintaining moisture balance, making it a valuable addition to shampoos and conditioners.
Additionally, Steareth-10 acts as a solubilizer, allowing oils, fragrances, and essential oils to blend into water-based formulas, such as in perfumes, bath oils, and makeup removers.
Steareth-10’s gentle nature makes it a preferred choice for products targeting sensitive skin, such as baby care and hypoallergenic formulations.
Overall, Steareth-10 is a crucial component in a wide range of formulations, enhancing texture, stability, and performance while ensuring a smooth, non-irritating experience for users.
Steareth-10 is safe for use in cosmetic products.
The conducted research shows that Steareth-10 is a safe substance for use in cosmetics, however, at a concentration above 60%, it may be irritating to the skin and eyes, however, in cosmetic products it is used in much lower concentrations.
The washing substance removes impurities from the surface of the hair and skin.
The washing process removes fatty substances, therefore re-greasing substances are used that rebuild the lipid barrier.
O/W emulsifier, an ingredient that enables the formation of an emulsion.
Steareth-10 is a physicochemical form that is created by combining (mixing) the water phase with the oil phase.
Examples of cosmetic emulsions are creams, lotions, balms.
A substance that stabilizes the foam and improves the quality of the foam in a mixture with anionic surfactants.
Steareth-10 acts as a rheology modifier (i.e. it improves the consistency causing an increase in viscosity) in washing preparations containing anionic surfactants, thanks to the formation of the so called.
Steareth-10 is non-ionic surfactant.
A moderately hydrophilic substance, not completely soluble in water.
Sensitive to changes in pH – at low pH Steareth-10 is stable, at high it disintegrates.
Steareth-10 is obtained by the reaction of ethylene oxide and stearyl alcohol.
The number assigned to a given compound indicates the amount of ethylene oxide units (mol) in the substance, so Steareth-10 is stearyl alcohol to which ten ethylene oxide units are attached.
The greater the number of moles of ethylene oxide in a molecule of a substance, the greater Steareth-10’s hydrophilicity, and thus its solubility in water.
Steareth-10 is widely used in various personal care and cosmetic products due to its multifunctional properties as an emulsifier, surfactant, and solubilizer.
Below are some of the key uses of Steareth-10:
Emulsifier in Creams and Lotions:
Steareth-10 is used to stabilize emulsions in products like moisturizers, lotions, and creams.
Steareth-10 helps to combine water and oil-based ingredients, ensuring smooth and consistent textures without separation.
Shampoos and Conditioners:
In hair care products, Steareth-10 acts as a surfactant and emulsifier, helping to cleanse the hair while maintaining moisture balance.
Steareth-10 also contributes to the creamy texture and helps in distributing other active ingredients like conditioning agents throughout the hair.
Body Washes and Cleansers:
Steareth-10 is used in body washes and facial cleansers to create a rich, stable lather, allowing for effective cleansing without stripping the skin’s natural oils.
Steareth-10 contributes to the product’s smooth feel and enhances its foaming properties.
Solubilizer in Fragrance and Essential Oil Products:
As a solubilizer, Steareth-10 helps dissolve oils, fragrances, and other lipophilic ingredients into water-based solutions.
This is especially useful in products like perfumes, bath oils, and facial mists where oils need to be incorporated into a water-based formula.
Shaving Creams and Gels:
In shaving products, Steareth-10 helps form a stable emulsion, ensuring that the shaving cream or gel maintains its consistency during use.
Steareth-10 also improves the spreadability of the product, allowing for a smoother shave.
Makeup Removers:
In makeup removers, Steareth-10 helps dissolve makeup, especially waterproof formulas, and helps emulsify oil-based ingredients with water for easy and effective removal.
Bubble Baths:
Steareth-10 is used in bubble bath formulations to generate rich foam and improve the sensory experience of the product.
Steareth-10 helps create a stable lather that lasts longer, contributing to a luxurious bath experience.
Skin Care Products for Sensitive Skin:
Due to its gentle nature, Steareth-10 is often included in products designed for sensitive or delicate skin, such as baby products or hypoallergenic skin care lines.
Steareth-10 provides mild cleansing without causing irritation.
Hair Styling Products:
In hair styling products, such as mousses or styling gels, Steareth-10 enhances the texture and stability of the product.
Steareth-10 can help distribute active ingredients evenly across the hair and improve the product’s overall feel.
Sun Care Products:
Steareth-10 is sometimes used in sunscreen formulations to help mix the various ingredients, ensuring uniform application and enhancing the overall texture of the product.
Consumer Uses:
Steareth-10 is used in the following products: washing & cleaning products, plant protection products, lubricants and greases, air care products, polishes and waxes and fillers, putties, plasters, modelling clay.
Other release to the environment of Steareth-10 is likely to occur from: indoor use (e.g. machine wash liquids/detergents, automotive care products, paints and coating or adhesives, fragrances and air fresheners) and outdoor use.
Widespread uses by professional workers:
Steareth-10 is used in the following products: washing & cleaning products, polishes and waxes and plant protection products.
Steareth-10 is used for the manufacture of: textile, leather or fur.
Other release to the environment of Steareth-10 is likely to occur from: indoor use (e.g. machine wash liquids/detergents, automotive care products, paints and coating or adhesives, fragrances and air fresheners) and outdoor use.
Uses at industrial sites:
Steareth-10 is used in the following products: washing & cleaning products, metal surface treatment products, textile treatment products and dyes, polymers, pH regulators and water treatment products, lubricants and greases and leather treatment products.
Steareth-10 is used for the manufacture of: textile, leather or fur.
Release to the environment of Steareth-10 can occur from industrial use: in processing aids at industrial sites and in the production of articles.
Applications of Steareth-10:
Steareth-10 has exceptionally good emulsifying and dispersing properties.
As Steareth-10 stabilises oil-in-water emulsions, it is an ingredient of many cosmetic formulations such as creams, milks, hair dyes, face and body colour cosmetics and lotions.
Steareth-10 is a substance of moderate foamability; when used with anionic surfactants, it stabilises and improves the quality of foam.
When used as an ingredient of washing preparations among other surfactants, Steareth-10 forms what are known as mixed micelles.
This translates into the possibility to use Steareth-10 as a rheology modifier, i.e. an agent that improves consistency.
Steareth-10 is a washing substance excellent to remove impurities from the hair and skin.
Besides applications in household products, Steareth-10 can also be used in industrial applications such as“soluble oils”, textile end-use finishes, anti-foaming emulsions and hydraulic fluids.
Moreover, due to Steareth-10’s capacity to emulsify substances such as mineral oils, white spirit, paraffin, xylene as well as vegetable and animal fats, the applications of Steareth-10 also include cleaning formulations for removing oily impurities.
Steareth-10 is also a dispersant for dyes and pigments, so it is used in the production of pigment pastes.
Other Applications:
Bath, shower & soaps
Antiperspirants & deodorants
Face / neck skin care
Face colour
Hair relaxing / permanent waves
Shaving / hair removal
Styling
Function of Steareth-10:
Steareth-10 is a co-emulsifier oil-in-water, typically combined with Arlatone 983.
Steareth-10 is used in skin care, hair care, toiletries and decorative cosmetics.
Emollient:
Softens and soothes the skin. Helps with skin conditioning.
Emulsifier:
Allows water and oils to remain mixed together to form an emulsion.
Surfactant:
Reduces the surface tension to allow mixtures to be formed evenly.
Emulsifier is a specific type of surfactant which allows two liquids to mix together evenly
Other Functions:
Dispersing agents
Solubilisers
Emulsifiers
Gelling agents
Surfactants / detergents
Formulations with Steareth-10:
Decorative Cosmetics: Long Wear Lash
A formulation which highlights the water and smudge resistant capabilities of the DERMACRYL C polymer.
Hair Care: Polymeric No Lye Relaxer
The shear thinning STRUCTURE 2001 polymer and STRUCTURE 3001 polymer rheology modifiers in this no lye relaxer provide handling advantages during use over traditional relaxer systems because of the significantly lower levels of fatty alcohols and surfactants used for thickening.
Skin Care: Nourishing & Moisturising Creams
emi-fatty O/W cream is suitable for dry, mature and ageing skin.
The combination of ceramides, vitamin A, allantoin and VLMW hyaluronic acid nourishes the skin, supports Steareth-10’s regeneration and makes it softer.
Aloe Vera stimulates micro-circulation in treated areas, the combination of hyaluronic acid with panthenol and NMF (natural moisturizing factor) components provides superior moisturizing effect.
Carboxymethylglucan helps to heal small wounds, improves skin smoothness, vitalizes stressed skin and stimulates Steareth-10’s own defense capability.
Skin Care: Anti-Age Cream
This cream is a substantive skin conditioner that combats wrinkles with Floraesters 20 and Floraesters 30 – both shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Floraesters K-20W Jojoba serves dual purpose by providing jojoba emolliency and neutralizing the polymer system in this formula.
Long-term skin moisturization is achieved with the use of this lotion.
Skin Care: Tinted Moringa 24 Hour Moisturizer
This tinted cream is an extended moisturizer that continuously moisturizes the skin with the latest in moringa emolliency and jojoba moisturization technology.
Data is available to support claims that Floraesters 20 and Floraesters 30 reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Floraesters K-20W Jojoba is used both for jojoba emolliency and as the neutralizer for the polymer system in this formula.
Properties of Steareth-10:
Steareth-10 has several key properties that make it a valuable ingredient in cosmetic and personal care formulations.
Below are the primary characteristics of Steareth-10:
Surfactant Properties:
Non-Ionic:
Steareth-10 is a non-ionic surfactant, which means it doesn’t carry a charge.
This gives it excellent compatibility with both anionic (negatively charged) and cationic (positively charged) ingredients, making it versatile in formulations.
Surface Tension Reduction:
As a surfactant, Steareth-10 lowers the surface tension between different ingredients (water and oils), facilitating the creation of stable emulsions and foams.
Emulsifying Agent:
Emulsifier:
Steareth-10 helps blend water and oil-based ingredients together, preventing separation and ensuring the uniform consistency of products such as creams, lotions, and conditioners.
Stabilizes Emulsions:
Steareth-10 stabilizes the emulsions in formulations, keeping them smooth and consistent over time, which is particularly important in lotions, creams, and other water-oil mixtures.
Cleansing and Foaming Agent:
Foam Booster:
Steareth-10 is known for boosting the foaming properties of cleansers, shampoos, and body washes, helping to create a rich, creamy lather.
Mild Cleansing:
Steareth-10 gently cleanses the skin and hair by emulsifying oils and dirt, allowing them to be rinsed away with water without stripping natural oils, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
Conditioning and Texture Improvement:
Conditioning Agent:
Steareth-10 adds smoothness to both skin and hair, contributing to the conditioning effects in shampoos, conditioners, and lotions.
Steareth-10 leaves the skin feeling soft and the hair more manageable.
Improves Product Feel:
Steareth-10 contributes to a silky, smooth texture in formulations, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the product.
Solubilizing Agent:
Solubilizer:
Steareth-10 can help dissolve oils or fragrances in water-based products, making it an effective solubilizing agent in formulations like sunscreens, perfumes, and facial cleansers.
Stability and Compatibility:
pH-Independent:
Steareth-10 remains effective across a wide range of pH levels, which makes it suitable for various types of cosmetic formulations, from acidic to neutral or slightly alkaline products.
Thermal Stability:
Steareth-10 is stable at typical formulation temperatures, ensuring it does not degrade or lose effectiveness during product manufacturing or use.
Mildness:
Gentle on Skin:
Being a non-ionic surfactant, Steareth-10 is generally less irritating compared to other types of surfactants (like anionic surfactants).
Steareth-10 is suitable for sensitive skin types and baby products, though it is always important to test for individual skin sensitivities.
Non-Irritating:
Steareth-10 has a low potential for skin and eye irritation, making it safe for everyday use in personal care products.
Water-Solubility:
Water-Soluble:
Steareth-10 is easily soluble in water, making it ideal for use in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers.
Biodegradability:
Biodegradable:
Steareth-10 is biodegradable in nature, meaning it breaks down in the environment, which reduces its ecological footprint compared to other surfactants that might persist in water systems.
Appearance:
Physical Form:
Steareth-10 is typically found as a clear to slightly cloudy, viscous liquid or a soft solid, depending on the concentration of ethoxylation.
Production of Steareth-10:
Steareth-10 is produced through the ethoxylation process, which involves the reaction of stearyl alcohol (a fatty alcohol derived from plant or animal fats) with ethylene oxide.
The ethylene oxide molecules are added to the stearyl alcohol in a controlled chemical reaction under high temperature and pressure.
This process introduces ethylene oxide groups into the stearyl alcohol molecule, creating a compound with hydrophilic (water-loving) properties, which allows Steareth-10 to function effectively as an emulsifier, surfactant, and solubilizer.
The number “10” in Steareth-10 refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units that are attached to each stearyl alcohol molecule during the ethoxylation process.
The longer the chain of ethylene oxide units, the more hydrophilic the molecule becomes, allowing it to interact better with water and oil-based ingredients.
After the ethoxylation process is complete, Steareth-10 is typically purified and tested to ensure it meets the desired quality and safety standards.
Steareth-10 is then incorporated into cosmetic and personal care formulations in a range of concentrations, depending on its intended use and function in the product.
Steareth-10 is a key ingredient in various emulsions, shampoos, conditioners, creams, and lotions.
History of Steareth-10:
Steareth-10 is part of a broader group of ethoxylated fatty alcohols, which have been developed and used since the mid-20th century.
The development of these compounds can be traced back to the growing demand for more efficient and versatile surfactants and emulsifiers in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors.
The process of ethoxylation, which involves the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty alcohols like stearyl alcohol, was developed in the early 1900s and became more widely used by the mid-20th century.
This process allowed for the creation of a range of emulsifiers with varying hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) values, making it possible to tailor surfactants for specific applications, including personal care formulations.
Steareth-10, as a specific ethoxylated compound, likely emerged in the 1980s or 1990s as a refined version of earlier surfactants used in cosmetics.
Steareth-10’s primary advantage over earlier surfactants, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), was its improved mildness and ability to be used in products formulated for sensitive skin.
Over time, Steareth-10 became a popular choice in products like shampoos, conditioners, and moisturizers because of its ability to effectively emulsify and stabilize formulations while being less irritating to the skin and eyes.
With the growing emphasis on gentler, more effective ingredients in personal care products, Steareth-10 has continued to be refined and used as part of sulfate-free and mild formulations.
Steareth-10’s history is intertwined with the evolution of more sophisticated and consumer-friendly cosmetic and skincare products.
Handling and Storage of Steareth-10:
Handling:
Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.
Use in well-ventilated areas.
Follow good industrial hygiene practices.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety goggles.
Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers.
Keep in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Avoid exposure to moisture, extreme heat, or direct sunlight.
Keep away from incompatible materials.
Reactivity and Stability of Steareth-10:
Stability:
Stable under normal conditions of use and storage.
Avoid exposure to high temperatures, which may lead to decomposition.
Reactivity:
Does not undergo hazardous polymerization.
Avoid mixing with strong acids, bases, and oxidizing agents.
First Aid Measures of Steareth-10:
Inhalation:
Move the person to fresh air.
If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact:
Wash with soap and water.
If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Eye Contact:
Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek medical attention immediately.
Firefighting Measures of Steareth-10:
Extinguishing Media:
Use foam, dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide (CO2), or water spray for firefighting.
Special Hazards:
May produce harmful fumes such as carbon oxides when heated to decomposition.
Protective Equipment:
Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective clothing.
Accidental Release Measures of Steareth-10:
Personal Precautions:
Avoid contact with skin, eyes, or clothing. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Environmental Precautions:
Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water sources.
If the material contaminates the environment, contact local authorities.
Cleanup Methods:
Contain and absorb the spill using inert materials like sand or vermiculite.
Collect the material and dispose of it according to local regulations.
Exposure Controls/Personal Protective Equipment of Steareth-10:
Engineering Controls:
Provide adequate ventilation to minimize the risk of inhalation exposure.
Personal Protective Equipment:
Respiratory Protection:
Use a dust mask or respirator if necessary, depending on exposure levels.
Hand Protection:
Wear gloves made of protective materials, such as nitrile or neoprene.
Eye Protection:
Wear safety goggles or a face shield to prevent eye contact.
Skin Protection:
Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, to avoid skin contact.
Identifiers of Steareth-10:
CAS Number: 13149-86-5
Molecular Formula: C38H78O11
Molecular Weight: 711.02
Chemical Name: STEARETH-10
CBNumber: CB1965667
Molecular Formula: C38H78O11
Molecular Weight: 711.02
CAS Number: 9005-00-9 (Generic) / 13149-86-5
Chem/IUPAC Name: Poly(Oxy-1,2-Ethanediyl), .alpha.-Octadecyl-.omega.-Hydroxy
COSING REF No: 78982
FORMULA: CH3(CH2)16CH2(OCH2CH2)nOH, avg. n 10
INCI name: STEARETH-10
Comedogenic potential (pc): 4
Classification: Ethoxylated compound
CAS Number: 9005-00-9 (Generic) / 13149-86-5
Chem/IUPAC Name: Poly(Oxy-1,2-Ethanediyl), .alpha.-Octadecyl-.omega.-Hydroxy
COSING REF No: 78982
Properties of Steareth-10:
Boiling point: 704.6±55.0 °C(Predicted)
Density: 0.991±0.06 g/cm3(Predicted)
pka: 14.36±0.10(Predicted)
Physical form at 25°C: Solid
Chemistry: Alkoxylated alcohols
Chemical Structure: Ester of stearyl alcohol and ethylene oxide
Appearance: Clear to slightly cloudy liquid or white waxy solid
Solubility: Soluble in water and oils
Melting Point: 50–60°C
Boiling Point: Not available
Viscosity: Moderate to high
pH: Neutral (typically around 6-8 in aqueous solution)
Surfactant Type: Nonionic
HLB Value: 10–12
Density: Approximately 0.9 g/cm³
Flash Point: Not available
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; should be stored away from excessive heat and moisture
Biodegradability: Biodegradable
Speicifications of Steareth-10:
Chemical Name: Steareth-10
INCI Name: Steareth-10
CAS Number: 9005-00-9
EC Number: 500-004-7
Formula: C18H37O(C2H4O)n
Synonyms: Polyethylene glycol stearyl ether
Appearance: Clear to slightly cloudy liquid or white waxy solid
Melting Point: 50–60°C
HLB Value: 10–12
Solubility: Soluble in water and oils
Purity: Typically 95% or higher
Stability: Chemically stable, biodegradable
Names of Steareth-10:
Regulatory process names:
Octadecan-1-ol, ethoxylated
Octadecan-1-ol, ethoxylated
1 – 2.5 moles ethoxylated
Polyoxyl stearyl ether
CAS names:
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy-
IUPAC names:
1-(2-$l^{1}-oxidanylethoxy)octadecane
2-[2-(octadecyloxy)ethoxy]ethan-1-ol
2-Octadecoxyethanol
2-octadecoxyethanol
alpha-octadecyl-omega-hydroxy-polyglycolether
Octadecan-1-ol, ethoxylated
Octadecan-1-ol, ethoxylated (1 – 2.5 mol EO)
Octadecan-1-ol, ethoxylated (1 – 2.5 moles ethoxylated)
Octadecan-1-ol, ethoxylated (10 mol EO)
Octadecan-1-ol, ethoxylated, < 2.5 EO Octadecan-1-ol, ethoxylated, < 2.5 EO Poly (oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) - α - octadecyl -ω- hydroxyl Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) , .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy- Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy- poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy- Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), a-octadecyl-w-hydroxy- Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), a-octadecyl-w-hydroxy- (2-5EO) Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), alpha-octadecyl-omega-hydroxy- Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), α-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy- Steareth-2 stearyl alcohol, ehtoxylated Trade names: 1-Octadecanol, monoether with polyethylene glycol [1-14C]Octadecylalkohol + 7 EO; 7-EO A 20 A 20 (Chinese surfactant) Aduxol ST 05 Alcool en C18 éthoxylé Alkasurf SA 2 Alkyl polyglycol ether C18 with EO Alkyl Polyglykolether C18 mit EO ARLYPON SA 10 FEST; 10-EO Arlypon SA 10; 10-EO Arlypon SA 20 D; 20-EO ARLYPON SA 20 FEST; 20-EO Arlypon SA 20; 20-EO Arlypon SA 4 D; 4-EO Arlypon SA 4; 4-EO Arlypon SA 6; 6-EO ARLYPON SA 7 FEST; 7-EO ARLYPON SA 7; 7-EO Avivan SO 6 Berol 043 Berol 08 Brij 700 Brij 72 Brij 721 BRIJ 721 FL; 21-EO Brij 721 P; 21-EO Brij 721 VP; 21-EO BRIJ 721; 21-EO BRIJ 72; 2-EO Brij 76 BRIJ 76; 10-EO Brij 78 BRIJ 78 P; 20-EO Brij 78; 20-EO C18-Fettalkohol + 12 EO; 12-EO C18-Fettalkohol + 14 EO; 14-EO C18-Fettalkohol + 20 EO; 20-EO C18-Fettalkohol + 28 EO; 28-EO C18-Fettalkohol + 52 EO; 52-EO Cemulsol DB 25/18 Cetalox AT Ekaline G 80 EM 1207 Empilan KM 50 EMTHOX 5888-A POE (20) STEARYL ALCOHOL; 20-EO Emulgen 306P Emulgen 310 Emulgen 320P Emulgen 3299 ESK 1 ESK 1 (demulsifier) Ethosperse CA 20 Ethoxylated octadecyl alcohol Ethoxylated stearyl alcohol Eumulgin S 21; 21-EO Eumulgin S 2; 2-EO Eumulgin SA 2; 2-EO FAEO C18 + 10EO; 10-EO FAEO C18 + 11EO; 11-EO FAEO C18 + 12EO; 12-EO FAEO C18 + 13EO; 13-EO FAEO C18 + 14.6EO; 14,6-EO FAEO C18 + 14EO; 14-EO FAEO C18 + 15EO; 15-EO FAEO C18 + 20EO; 20-EO FAEO C18 + 21EO; 21-EO FAEO C18 + 28EO; 28-EO FAEO C18 + 2EO; 2-EO FAEO C18 + 30EO; 30-EO FAEO C18 + 4EO; 4-EO FAEO C18 + 52EO; 52-EO FAEO C18 + 5EO; 5-EO FAEO C18 + 6EO; 6-EO FAEO C18 + 7EO; 7-EO FAEO C18 + nEO; n-EO Fettalkoholpolyglykolether G 3694POE G 3710 G 3720 G 3720POE Genapol S Genapol S 020 Genapol S 100 Genapol S 150 Glycols, polyethylene, monooctadecyl ether Heptaethylene glycol monooctadecyl ether Hetoxol STA 30 IDH 45601; 4-EO LAMECREME SA 7 FEST; 7-EO Lamecreme SA 7; 7-EO Leunapon-F 18 Levenol PW Lipocol S 20 LOROL C 18 + 2EO; 2-EO Macol SA Macol SA 10 Macol SA 100 Macol SA 15 Macol SA 2 Macol SA 20 MACOL SA 20; 20-EO Macol SA 40 Macol SA 5 Marlipal 1850 Mergital S 2 Mergital S 21; 21-EO Newcol 1807 Nissan Dispanol 16A Nissan Nonion S 207 Nissan Nonion S 215 Nissan Nonion S 220 Nissan Nonion S 230 Noigen 140E Nonion S 207 Octadecanol + EO Octadecylalkohol + 7 [14C]EO; 7-EO Poly(oxy-1,2-ethandiyl), α-octadecyl-ω-hydroxy- Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), α-octadecyl-ω-hydroxy- POLYOXYAETHYLEN(10)STEARYLAETHER POLYOXYAETHYLEN(2)STEARYLAETHER POLYOXYAETHYLEN(20)STEARYLAETHER Polyoxyethylen Polyoxyethylen-(2)-Stearylalkohol Polyoxyethylen-Stearylalkohol-ether Polyoxyethylen-stearylether Sansheng AFE 7620 Stearath 7 Stearath 7 (CTFA) STEARETH Steareth Steareth-10 Steareth-10 (INCI) Steareth-100 Steareth-100 (INCI) Steareth-10; 10-EO Steareth-11 Steareth-11 (INCI) Steareth-11; 11-EO Steareth-13 Steareth-13 (INCI) Steareth-13; 13-EO Steareth-14 Steareth-14 (INCI) Steareth-15 Steareth-15 (INCI) Steareth-15; 15-EO Steareth-16 Steareth-16 (INCI) Steareth-2 Steareth-2 (CTFA) Steareth-2 (INCI) Steareth-20 Steareth-20 (INCI) Steareth-20; 20-EO Steareth-21 Steareth-21 (INCI) Steareth-25 Steareth-25 (INCI) Steareth-27 Steareth-27 (INCI) Steareth-2; 2-EO Steareth-3 Steareth-3 (INCI) Steareth-30 Steareth-30 (INCI) Steareth-4 Steareth-4 (INCI) Steareth-40 Steareth-40 (INCI) Steareth-4; 4-EO Steareth-5 Steareth-5 (INCI) Steareth-50 Steareth-50 (INCI) Steareth-10 Steareth-10 (INCI) Steareth-10; 6-EO Steareth-7 Steareth-7 (INCI) Steareth-7; 7-EO STEARYL ALCOHOL + 2EO; 2-EO Stearyl alcohol, ethoxylated Stearylalkohol + 2 EO; 2-EO Stearylalkohol + 7 EO; 7-EO Stearylalkohol + EO Stearylalkohol 21 EO; 21-EO STEARYLALKOHOL 4 EO GEREINIGT; 4-EO STEARYLALKOHOL 4 EO; 4-EO Stearylalkohol 6 EO/Stearylalkohol; 6-EO Stearylalkohol 7 EO/Stearylalkohol; 7-EO Stearylalkohol EO 20 Stearylalkohol-(10)polyglycolether Stearylalkohol-(20)polyglycolether Stearylalkohol-(4)polyglycolether Stearylalkohol-(5)polyglycolether Stearylalkohol-(6)polyglycolether Stearylalkohol-(7)polyglycolether Stearylalkohol-(XX)polyglycolether Stearylether Sympatens-AS/020 Tego Antifoam 204 Um A 549; 14,6-EO Volpo S 2; 2-EO Volpo S2 Volpo S2A Xiameter AFE 7610 α-Octadécyl-ω-hydroxypoly(oxyéthylène) Other names: Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-octadecyl-.omega.-hydroxy Other identifiers: 106707-02-2 106707-02-2 107120-43-4 107120-43-4 107120-44-5 1150565-38-0 1150565-38-0 12679-67-3 12679-67-3 130419-63-5 130419-63-5 1436693-16-1 1436693-16-1 147827-15-4 147827-15-4 161622-43-1 161622-43-1 171286-87-6 171286-87-6 181828-61-5 181828-61-5 31798-99-9 31798-99-9 31917-55-2 31917-55-2 32127-87-0 32127-87-0 459409-05-3 459409-05-3 503027-88-1 503027-88-1 51109-88-7 51109-88-7 55247-83-1 58339-87-0 58339-87-0 59890-16-3 59890-16-3 623588-92-1 623588-92-1 65489-62-5 65489-62-5 74749-69-2 74749-69-2 74749-72-7 74749-72-7 78690-64-9 78690-64-9 8013-79-4 8013-79-4 80700-13-6 80700-13-6 9005-00-9 96595-44-7 96595-44-7