PEG-20 Glyceryl Diisostearate
AKA “Polyethylene glycol 20 glyceryl diisostearate, PEG 20 glyceryl diisostearate
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Peg-20 glyceryl diisostearate
AKA: Polyethylene glycol 20 glyceryl diisostearate, PEG 20 glyceryl diisostearate
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Not Clean
PEG-20 Glyceryl Diisostearate is a cosmetic ingredient used as surfactant - cleansing, surfactant - emulsifying. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
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.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic emulsifier developed in the late 20th century by chemically combining glycerin (historically used as a humectant in skincare) with isostearic acid and polyethylene glycol to create a stable, water-soluble ingredient for cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR