What it is
PEG-10 Rapeseed Sterol is made by attaching an average of ten ethylene oxide units to phytosterols obtained from rapeseed (canola) oil. The sterol portion provides emollient, skin-conditioning character while the polyethylene glycol chain adds water compatibility, allowing it to function as a mild emulsifier and solubilizer. It supports stable, comfortable emulsions in creams and sun care.
Safety & warnings
Ethoxylated sterols are generally well tolerated and mild, with low irritation potential at typical use levels. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen. As a PEG-modified ingredient, manufacturers control for residual ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane during production.
Origin & sourcing
Semi-synthetic. The sterol base is plant-derived from rapeseed oil, then ethoxylated with polyethylene glycol to produce the finished surfactant.
Questions everyone asks
Where does PEG-10 Rapeseed Sterol come from?
Its sterol base comes from rapeseed (canola) oil, which is then reacted with polyethylene glycol units.
What is its role in sunscreen?
It acts as an emulsifier and emollient, helping blend oil and water phases and conditioning the skin.