A glycerol and stearic acid ester, "Glyceryl Stearate" is also known by the names "Glycerol Stearate" or "Stearate of Glycerol". This designation may appear among the ingredients of certain skin care or hair care products. What is "Glyceryl Stearate" ? What is its purpose? We provide some explanations.
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What is "Glyceryl Stearate" and what is its purpose?
Summary
Published October 29, 2021,
updated on February 2, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
3 min read
What is "Glyceryl Stearate"?
The "Glyceryl Stearate" is classified among the non-ionic surfactants/emulsifiersor as a anemollient agent. It is obtained from the esterification of glycerin and stearic acid. The "Glyceryl Stearate" can be of plant or synthetic origin. This ingredient can notably be derived from olive oil, palm oil, or canola oil. In cosmetic formulas, it must be dissolved in an oily phase and heated to a recommended dosage between 6 and 8% of the final product.
Often offered in the form of small pellets, "Glyceryl Stearate" appears as a white or cream-colored powder with a slight odor. It is used in the formulation of various skin care products such as creams, lotions, skin cleansers, etc... The "Glyceryl Stearate" is also a common ingredient in hair care products (shampoo, conditioner, etc...), as well as in certain makeup products (foundation, mascara, etc...). It is approved for use in organic products.
What is the usefulness of "Glyceryl Stearate"?
The "Glyceryl Stearate" is often used as anon-ionic emulsifying agent. This ingredient allows the modification of the interfacial tension between two immiscible liquids such as water and oil. Its emulsifying action allows for the easy mixing of oily and aqueous phases, thus creating stable emulsions without the need for a stabilizer. It thus provides good stability to cosmetic products.
Glyceryl Stearate" is also used as an emollient in skincare. Often used in moisturizing treatments, it helps to hydrate, soften, and smooth the skin. It thus gives the skin a soft and silky appearance. In hair care, "Glyceryl Stearate" is used for its antistatic properties : in other words, it helps to reduce or even eliminate static electricity.
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