Isosteareth-16
AKA “Polyoxyethylene isostearyl ether, PEG-16 isostearyl ether
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Isosteareth-16
AKA: Polyoxyethylene isostearyl ether, PEG-16 isostearyl ether
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Not Clean
Isosteareth-16 is a cosmetic ingredient used as cleansing, surfactant - cleansing. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
Effective at 11.51%
CAS #
-
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Removes Impurities
Cleansing Surfactant
Traditional Use
A polyethylene glycol ether of isostearyl alcohol developed as a modern emulsifier and surfactant. Used in contemporary cosmetics to create stable and mild cleansing products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.02%
23.0%
0%32%
Effective Range
CIR reported use: 18-23 | 0.02-0.4 | 0.2-1
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR