Safety Assessment of PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate as Used in Cosmetics

Abstract

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (Panel) reviewed the safety of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-150 pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, which functions as a viscosity-increasing agent-aqueous in cosmetic products and is being used at concentrations up to 5%. Given the chemical structure (large molecule), skin penetration is not likely. The available toxicity data and the low ingredient use concentrations suggest that systemic toxicity would not be likely even if percutaneous absorption were to occur. Additionally, the negative human repeated insult patch test data on the undiluted ingredient were deemed sufficient for evaluating skin irritation and sensitization potential. The Panel concluded that PEG-150 pentaerythrityl tetrastearate is safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment.