Stearyl Stearoyl Stearate

What is Stearyl Stearoyl Stearate?

Stearyl Stearoyl Stearate is a wax-like ester derived from stearic acid and stearyl alcohol, often sourced from vegetable oils. In cosmetics, it appears in moisturizers, lip products, and foundations. It functions by forming a lightweight barrier on the skin to lock in moisture and provide slip for easy application. As a viscosity controller, it thickens emulsions and suspensions, ensuring even distribution and stability. Its skin-conditioning role helps maintain suppleness by mimicking natural lipids, while its non-greasy emolliency supports smooth blending without heaviness. This multifunctional ingredient enhances overall product performance across creams, sticks, and lotions.

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

Provides emolliency to soften and smooth skin texture.

Controls viscosity for better product stability and spreadability.

Supports skin conditioning to promote flexibility and moisture retention.

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 rough skin seeking softening effects.
Those with rare allergies to fatty acid esters.
Users of emulsion-based products like creams and lotions.
Individuals sensitive to ester-based emollients.
People preferring non-comedogenic ingredients for daily routines.
People preferring fully plant-derived alternatives despite its vegetable origins.

Safety Notes

  • Recognized as low hazard in cosmetic safety assessments.
  • Shows no comedogenic potential and minimal irritation risk.

Frequently Asked Questions about Stearyl Stearoyl Stearate

Is Stearyl Stearoyl Stearate comedogenic?

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

What products contain it?

Common in moisturizers, lipsticks, foundations, and creamy emulsions.

Is it safe for daily use?

Yes, assessed as low hazard with no significant irritation concerns.