GLYCERYL STEARATE

GLYCERYL STEARATE: Natural Emollient and Stabilizing Agent

EMOLLIENT | MOISTURZING | TEXTURZING

What is Glyceryl Stearate ?

Glyceryl Stearate is an ester derived from glycerin (a natural humectant) and stearic acid (a fatty acid found in plant or animal oils). Commonly used in cosmetic products, it acts as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and texturizing agent. It helps blend the water and oil phases of a formula, giving creams, lotions, and milks a smooth, creamy, and uniform texture.

Origin of Glyceryl Stearate

In natural cosmetics, Glyceryl Stearate is often derived from plant-based sources such as palm, coconut, or soybean oils. The version used in formulations adheres to cosmetic safety standards and is suitable for vegan products.

Properties and Functions in Cosmetics

• Emulsifier: Stabilizes formulations containing both water and oil.

• Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin by forming a light protective film.

• Indirect moisturizer: Helps maintain skin hydration by reducing transepidermal water loss.

• Texture enhancer: Makes skincare products more pleasant to apply (silky, creamy, non-greasy).

Benefits of Glyceryl Stearate for Skin

• Smooths the skin and leaves a velvety finish.

• Helps strengthen the skin barrier.

• Suitable for dry, sensitive, or mature skin.

• Non-greasy: ideal for daily face and body care.

Use in Cosmetic Products

• Facial and body moisturizers

• Body lotions

• Sunscreens

• Hair care products (conditioners, masks)

• Makeup (foundations, BB creams)

Tolerance and Safety

✔️ Very well tolerated by the skin
✔️ Suitable for daily use
✔️ Non-comedogenic
❌ Avoid in case of known allergies to esters or fatty acids (rare)

Sources:

• Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) – Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Glyceryl Stearate
  https://www.cir-safety.org

• PubChem – Glyceryl Stearate
  https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Glyceryl-stearate

• European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – Substance Infocard – Glyceryl Stearate
  https://echa.europa.eu