Cholesteryl Hydroxystearate

What is Cholesteryl Hydroxystearate?

Cholesteryl Hydroxystearate is a synthetic lipid ester created by combining cholesterol—a sterol naturally present in human skin—with 12-hydroxystearic acid, a hydroxylated form of the fatty acid stearic acid. Commonly incorporated into skincare products like moisturizers, creams, lip balms, and foundations, it serves in the emollient and conditioning category. This ingredient functions by forming organized gel networks that thicken formulations, improve emulsion stability, and provide a smooth, non-greasy finish. Its cholesterol component mimics skin's natural barrier lipids, aiding in surface leveling, while its fatty acid chain contributes to slip and film-forming properties, making it suitable for both aqueous and anhydrous systems. At typical use levels, it supports product integrity and sensory appeal.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.

Benefits

Provides emollience to smooth and soften skin surface.

Increases viscosity for better product stability and spreadability.

Enhances texture in creams and lotions for improved user experience.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with dry skin needing gentle conditioning.
Those with rare allergies to cholesterol or fatty acid esters.
Users of thick moisturizers or balms for texture preference.
People preferring fully natural or plant-based ingredients only.
Individuals seeking non-comedogenic emollients in daily routines.
Users sensitive to lipid-based thickeners, despite low risk.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard with no significant concerns from reviews.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to contribute to pore blockage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cholesteryl Hydroxystearate

What does Cholesteryl Hydroxystearate do in skincare?

It acts as a skin conditioner, emollient, and viscosity controller to smooth skin and stabilize product texture.

Is it safe for daily use?

Yes, it carries a low hazard rating and is suitable in cosmetic concentrations.

Does it clog pores?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it non-pore-clogging.