Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate

What is Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate?

Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is a branched-chain ester produced by reacting isocetyl alcohol with stearoyl stearic acid, creating a synthetic lipid tailored for cosmetics. It appears in moisturizers, lipsticks, foundations, and sunscreens, primarily in oil phases. This ingredient functions by coating the skin to reduce water loss and friction, delivering a smooth, non-sticky finish. As a viscosity controller, it increases thickness in anhydrous and emulsified systems, ensuring even spreading and stability. Its emollient action mimics skin's natural oils, supporting suppleness, while its low polarity aids compatibility in diverse formulations, from lightweight serums to rich balms.

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

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

Delivers emollience to smooth and soften skin surface.

Modifies viscosity for improved product stability and spreadability.

Supports skin conditioning without comedogenic concerns.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry or textured skin seeking hydration.
People with rare allergies to fatty acid esters.
Users preferring silky, non-greasy textures in cosmetics.
Those sensitive to synthetic emollients.
Acne-prone skin types due to low pore-clogging potential.
Individuals who react to similar stearate compounds.

Safety Notes

  • Deemed safe for use in cosmetics by ingredient review experts.
  • Displays low potential for irritation in typical concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate

What is Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate?

A synthetic ester from isocetyl alcohol and stearic acid derivatives, used as an emollient and thickener in creams and lip products.

Is it comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it suitable for pore-friendly formulations.

What roles does it play in products?

Serves as skin conditioner, viscosity controller, and emollient to enhance texture and softness.