Steareth-40 is a chemical compound, carbon chains alkyl polyethylene glycol (PEG (Polyethylene glycol)) ether of ethoxylated fatty stearyl alcohol (40 mol), from palm kernel oils and coconut oils and fats.

Safety

The term 'eth' refers to the ethoxylation reaction with ethylene oxide after which residues of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, chemical compounds considered carcinogenic, may remain. The degree of safety therefore depends on the degree of purity of the compound obtained. At present, no manufacturer is known to provide this information on the label.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Gel former. It acts as a viscosity enhancer to increase gel stability and is evenly distributed on a molecular scale as it can be engineered by the chemist at the molecular level. Definitely recommended in depilatories, foam baths.

Cleaning agent. Ingredient that cleanses skin without exploiting the surface-active properties that produce a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum. 

Surfactant - Cleansing agent. Cosmetic products used to cleanse the skin utilise the surface-active action that produces a lowering of the surface tension of the stratum corneum, facilitating the removal of dirt and impurities. 

CAS: 9005-00-9 generic