Surfactant ingredient

Tribehenin PEG-20 Esters

A PEG-20 ethoxylated ester of Tribehenin used as a nonionic emulsifier and thickener in cream and sunscreen formulas; distinct from the KB's plain Tribehenin, which is not ethoxylated and used mainly as an anhydrous emollient/thickener.

emulsifierthickener

Benefits

  • Forms and stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions
  • Adds body and thickness to creams and sunscreens

Watch for

  • Ethoxylated ingredient — trace 1,4-dioxane contamination possible unless properly vacuum-stripped during manufacture

In depth

What it does

A PEG-20 ethoxylated ester of Tribehenin used as a nonionic emulsifier and thickener in cream and sunscreen formulas; distinct from the KB's plain Tribehenin, which is not ethoxylated and used mainly as an anhydrous emollient/thickener. As an surfactant ingredient, it is particularly valued for forms and stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions and adds body and thickness to creams and sunscreens.

How to use it

Used as part of a cleanser, so placement is straightforward — it's your first step, applied to damp skin and rinsed off thoroughly. Avoid overwashing, which can disrupt the skin barrier.

At a glance
CategorySurfactant
IrritancyLow–moderate
Beginner-friendlyYes
In your routine

Generally well-tolerated and easy to layer.

Found in 2 products
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Products with Tribehenin PEG-20 Esters

Sport & Outdoor Shield SPF 50Sunscreen
Dolomia
Sport & Outdoor Shield SPF 50
Radiance CreamMoisturizer
Dolomia
Radiance Cream