Does steareth-20 strip skin?

Steareth-20 is a surfactant and emulsifier used in cleansers and makeup removers. Published reviews do not identify it as unusually stripping at typical use levels, though like any surfactant, formulation context (concentration, other ingredients) matters.

What does steareth-20 do?

This ingredient helps cleanse by lifting oils and makeup, and also stabilizes formulations. It's milder than stronger surfactants.

surfactant · emulsifier

Steareth-20

Commonly feared, low concern·Moderate evidence

A nonionic emulsifier from the same family as Steareth-2, used to hold oil and water phases together in lotions and roll-on antiperspirants. Well tolerated in rinse-off and leave-on formulas. Approved for cosmetic use.

The myth vs the evidence

The "eth" suffix signals ethoxylation, and some consumers equate Steareth ingredients with PEG concerns. Steareth-20 is approved for cosmetic use and graded safe by CIR. The evidence does not support blanket avoidance.

Questions

Does steareth-20 strip skin?: Steareth-20 is a surfactant and emulsifier used in cleansers and makeup removers. Published reviews do not identify it as unusually stripping at typical use levels, though like any surfactant, formulation context (concentration, other ingredients) matters.
What does steareth-20 do?: This ingredient helps cleanse by lifting oils and makeup, and also stabilizes formulations. It's milder than stronger surfactants.

Products with Steareth-20

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.