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PEG-100 Stearate: Is It a Microplastic?

Low concernPEG / glycol

Ethoxylated emulsifier, one of the most common in lotions. Not a microplastic. The real question with PEGs is manufacturing purity, since ethoxylation can leave traces of 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen.

Where it appears

  • Lotions and creams
  • Cleansers
  • Sunscreen
  • Hair conditioner

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; 1,4-dioxane must be removed to trace levels.

United States

FDA monitors 1,4-dioxane; some US states cap it in cosmetics.

Cleaner alternatives

  • Glyceryl stearate
  • Cetearyl olivate
  • Sucrose stearate

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PEG-100 Stearate, common questions

Is PEG-100 Stearate a microplastic?

Borderline. Ethoxylated emulsifier, one of the most common in lotions. Not a microplastic. The real question with PEGs is manufacturing purity, since ethoxylation can leave traces of 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen.

Is PEG-100 Stearate banned?

EU: Permitted; 1,4-dioxane must be removed to trace levels. US: FDA monitors 1,4-dioxane; some US states cap it in cosmetics.

What can I use instead of PEG-100 Stearate?

Cleaner alternatives include: Glyceryl stearate; Cetearyl olivate; Sucrose stearate.

What products contain PEG-100 Stearate?

Commonly found in: Lotions and creams; Cleansers; Sunscreen; Hair conditioner.

Related ingredients

PEG (Polyethylene Glycol)

PEG / glycol · Medium concern

Synthetic polymer / surfactant family. Often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane during manufacture.

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PPG (Polypropylene Glycol)

PEG / glycol · Medium concern

Synthetic polymer in the propylene glycol family.

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PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil

PEG / glycol · Low concern

Ethoxylated castor oil used to dissolve fragrance and oils into water. Plant-derived backbone, ethoxylated. Not a microplastic; the concern is 1,4-dioxane purity.

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PEG-12 Dimethicone

PEG / glycol · Low concern

Water-dispersible silicone made by attaching PEG chains to a siloxane. Neither part is a microplastic, but it inherits the ethoxylate purity question.

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