In our reference data, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate can feed Malassezia (fungal acne).
PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate is a PEG-modified fatty acid ester used primarily as a thickening agent and co-emulsifier in cleansers, body washes, and surfactant-based formulations to improve viscosity and texture. It is a formulation aid rather than an active treatment ingredient.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation | Rare | Mild, transient irritation possible in sensitive individuals, typically with leave-on or high-concentration use. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | PEG-based compounds can rarely sensitize, particularly on compromised or broken skin. |
| Eye stinging | Uncommon | In rinse-off cleansers, accidental eye contact may cause temporary stinging. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.