Ingredient deep-dive

PEG-150 Distearate: Is It a Microplastic?

Low concernPEG / glycol

High-molecular-weight PEG used to thicken surfactant systems. Not a microplastic; a water-soluble ethoxylated polymer.

Where it appears

Shampoo
Body wash
Liquid soap

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted with dioxane purity limits.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

Salt thickening
Xanthan gum
Coco-glucoside systems

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PEG-150 Distearate, common questions

Is PEG-150 Distearate a microplastic?

Borderline. High-molecular-weight PEG used to thicken surfactant systems. Not a microplastic; a water-soluble ethoxylated polymer.

Is PEG-150 Distearate banned?

EU: Permitted with dioxane purity limits. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of PEG-150 Distearate?

Cleaner alternatives include: Salt thickening; Xanthan gum; Coco-glucoside systems.

What products contain PEG-150 Distearate?

Commonly found in: Shampoo; Body wash; Liquid soap.

Related ingredients

PEG (Polyethylene Glycol)

PEG / glycol · Medium concern

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

PPG (Polypropylene Glycol)