Steareth-2

Functions
Emulsifier
Surfactant
Pigment wetting agent
Detergent
Spreadability enhancer
CAS Number(s)
16057-43-5
9005-00-9
EINECS number(s)
500-017-8
FDA UNII
V56DFE46J5
INCI name
Steareth-2

Steareth-2 is a white soft solid (2-mole ethoxylate of stearyl alcohol) auxiliary oil-in-water emulsifier with an HLB value of 4.9. It is a multifunctional ingredient used in personal care applications as a nonionic surfactant, wetting agent, solubilizer, conditioner, and coupling agent.

Steareth-2 is soluble in alcohol and cottonseed oil and insoluble in water and propylene glycol. It is helpful in emulsifying ceto-stearyl alcohols and all oil-in-water emulsions, including those containing up to 25% ethanol or high electrolyte concentrations. Thanks to its lipophilic character, Steareth-2 is an excellent choice as an oil-soluble surfactant for these systems and has also shown exceptional performance when used as a spreading agent.

Enabling cream and milk formulations, Steareth-2 exhibits low and high pH resistance and is compatible with oleosome- and phosphosome-containing formulations. Combined with Steareth-21, it has better emulsifying performance and is used in many personal care applications, including sprayable products.

Steareth-2 is incorporated in various cosmetics and toiletries, such as cream rinses, conditioners, bath oils, creams, lotions, deodorants, antiperspirants, and shaving products. It is a mild, virtually odorless, nonionic surfactant. It is typically used at 0.5-5% and is fully biodegradable.
See also
Synonyms
Polyoxyethylene 2 Stearyl Ether
Brij ™ 72
Macol® SA 2
Cremophor® SA 2
VOLPO S-2

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