• Adds pearly, luxurious appearance to liquid cleansers
• Improves viscosity and gives creamy texture
• Stabilizes foaming systems in shampoos and face washes
• Mild on skin, suitable for baby products
• Can be used with anionic, nonionic, and amphoteric surfactants

EGDS (Ethylene Glycol Distearate) – Pearlizing & Thickening Agent for Shampoos & Washes

EGDS (Ethylene Glycol Distearate) is a cosmetic-grade, non-ionic opacifier and pearlizing agent, widely used in shampoos, face washes, and body washes. It gives formulations a smooth, white, creamy appearance, enhancing both the look and feel of the product. Derived from stearic acid and ethylene glycol, it also contributes to mild thickening and emulsifying stability in surfactant blends. It is suitable for both adult and baby care products due to its gentle profile.

INCI Name: Ethylene Glycol Distearate

CAS Number: 627-83-8

Solubility: Dispersible in heated surfactant/water mix

Add Phase: Heat phase (65–75°C)

pH Stability: 4.5 – 7.5

Processing Temperature: 65–75°C

Appearance: White, waxy flakes or powder

Odor: Slight fatty odor

Molecular Formula: C38H76O4

Molecular Weight: 597.01 g/mol

Flash Point: > 150°C

Density: ~0.9 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Non-ionic ester

Functional Groups: Ester

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, baby products

• Usage Rate: 1% – 5%
• Phase: Add to heated phase (preferably surfactant blend)
• Ideal For: Shampoos, Face Washes, Body Washes, Baby Cleansers

🌟 For best pearlescent effect, premix EGDS with a small portion of surfactant and heat to 70°C, then blend into the batch. Works best in transparent or lightly colored formulas.

✔️ Excellent for all skin types

✔️ Gentle enough for sensitive and baby skin

✔️ Does not clog pores or leave residue

1. Creamy Moisturizing Shampoo

Use 2–3% EGDS with mild surfactants to give rich, pearly shine and viscosity.

2. Baby Body Wash

Add 1.5% with amphoteric surfactants like Cocamidopropyl Betaine for gentle cleansing and beautiful look.

3. Face Cleanser

Include 2% in clear facial wash to give luxurious texture without harshness.

4. Shower Gel / Body Wash

Combine with glycerin and hydrating agents for smooth, creamy shower experiences.

5. 2-in-1 Cleanser & Conditioner

Use in low-foam blends to thicken and soften both skin and hair.

Serums
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not compatible with thin liquid formats.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Can slightly enhance cream texture but not common.



Toners
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in water-based sprays.



Face Masks
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Used occasionally in wash-off masks.



Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Excellent texture and cleansing enhancement.



Hair Masks
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Can support texture but not a conditioning agent.



Deodorants
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not compatible with deodorant bases.



Eye Creams
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in eye area formulations.



Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Main use for pearl shine and creamy feel.



Soaps
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not for cold/hot process soap making.



Conditioners
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Used for appearance, not conditioning.



Lip Balms
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Incompatible with anhydrous systems.



Body Butters
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not recommended for thick oil-based butters.



Ointments
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not typically used in pharma-style ointments.

Q1: What’s the difference between EGDS and EGMS?

A1: EGDS provides a creamier, more defined pearl effect, while EGMS offers more opacity and texture.

Q2: Can I use EGDS in clear formulas?

A2: EGDS will cloud or pearlize the formula. For clarity, avoid using it.

Q3: Is EGDS safe for daily use?

A3: Yes — it’s mild, biodegradable, and commonly used in daily care.

Q4: Is it vegan and cruelty-free?

A4: Yes — it’s plant-based and not tested on animals.