Regulatory Status
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Safety Data
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Expert Verdict
Steareth-21 is a polyoxyethylene stearyl ether emulsifier and surfactant permitted in the EU without specific concentration restrictions. The CIR Expert Panel concluded it is safe as used in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating, with established safety at concentrations up to 7%. Primary concern is trace 1,4-dioxane contamination as a by-product of ethoxylation, which is controlled through purification steps.
Regulatory Flags
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Steareth-21 safe in cosmetics?
Steareth-21 is a polyoxyethylene stearyl ether emulsifier and surfactant permitted in the EU without specific concentration restrictions. The CIR Expert Panel concluded it is safe as used in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating, with established safety at concentrations up to 7%. Primary concern is trace 1,4-dioxane contamination as a by-product of ethoxylation, which is controlled through purification steps. The EU classifies Steareth-21 as "permitted". Safety rating: GOOD.
Is Steareth-21 allowed in the EU?
Steareth-21 EU regulatory status: permitted. Maximum allowed concentration: 60%. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.
What does Steareth-21 do in cosmetics?
Steareth-21 functions as: Surfactant, emulsifier. It is classified as a Surfactant in our database. CAS number: 21-01-1.
What is the Margin of Safety for Steareth-21?
not established The Margin of Safety (MoS) is calculated using SCCS methodology. A MoS above 100 is generally considered safe. Use the MoS Calculator tool to calculate MoS for your specific formulation and product category.
Compliance Tools
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Related Ingredients
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