Aluminum Distearate

What is Aluminum Distearate?

Aluminum Distearate is a synthetic aluminum salt formed by combining aluminum with stearic acid, a long-chain fatty acid typically derived from palm, coconut, or animal fats. It appears as a fine, white to yellowish powder with a waxy texture. Primarily used in makeup products like powders, foundations, and eyeshadows, as well as in creams and lotions, it acts as a multifunctional additive. By adsorbing moisture, it inhibits clumping in dry formulations, ensuring smooth flow and even application. In liquid or semi-solid products, it builds structure at the oil-water interface to resist phase separation and enhance shelf life. It also thickens formulas for optimal consistency and scatters light to create an opaque, uniform visual effect, masking imperfections while improving product aesthetics.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Anticaking agent
Prevents powders from clumping by reducing moisture pickup and improving flow, keeping loose and pressed powders uniform during storage and use.
Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Opacifying agent
Makes a formula less transparent to create a creamy, opaque look; can also help visually mask suspended particles and improve aesthetic uniformity.

Benefits

Maintains powder products in a free-flowing state by absorbing excess moisture.

Enhances emulsion stability to prevent separation in creams and lotions.

Provides controlled thickness and opacity for better texture and appearance.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of pressed powders and foundations seeking clump-free application.
Those with known sensitivity to aluminum compounds.
Individuals with acne-prone skin, as it has a non-comedogenic profile.
Individuals preferring products without any aluminum-derived ingredients.
People desiring stable, long-lasting creamy formulations.
People with rare allergies to fatty acid salts.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard with an EWG score of 2.
  • Found safe for use in cosmetics by expert safety reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aluminum Distearate

What does Aluminum Distearate do in skincare?

It prevents clumping in powders, stabilizes emulsions, controls thickness, and adds opacity.

Is Aluminum Distearate safe for daily use?

Yes, it has a low EWG hazard score of 2 and is safe in cosmetics per safety assessments.

Does it cause acne?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, suitable for acne-prone skin.