Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read
Is Steareth-20 vegan?
Check the Label
Source can be plant or animal.
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It depends — It is created by reacting stearyl alcohol with ethylene oxide.
01 · The basics
What is Steareth-20?
A synthetic polymer used as a surfactant and emulsifier in cosmetics.
02 · The source
Where it comes from
It is created by reacting stearyl alcohol with ethylene oxide. The stearyl alcohol can be derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. Check for a vegan label.
03 · Alternatives
Best vegan alternatives
Plant-derived emulsifiers
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Frequently asked
FAQ
Is Steareth-20 vegan?
Most likely yes (from plant oils), but because animal fat sourcing is possible, it is a 'Check Label' ingredient.
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