Sucrose Distearate

Benefits
Softening

What is Sucrose Distearate?

Sucrose distearate is a sucrose ester produced by esterifying sucrose, a disaccharide from sugarcane or beets, with stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid from plant oils like palm or soy. This non-ionic compound serves as a multifunctional ingredient in skincare, particularly in oil-in-water emulsions such as lotions, creams, and mild cleansers. It functions by lowering surface tension to enable mixing of immiscible oil and water phases, forming stable micelles that prevent separation and deliver uniform texture. As an emollient, it deposits a thin lipid-like film on skin to reduce roughness and enhance slip. In surfactant roles, it aids foaming and dispersion in rinse-off products. Its plant-based origin and biodegradable profile align with sustainable cosmetic trends, while its mild profile suits everyday formulations.

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:

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.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Provides softening by smoothing skin's surface and improving texture.

Stabilizes emulsions for consistent product spreadability and feel.

Supports gentle cleansing through surfactant action without stripping moisture.

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 or rough skin needing emollient effects.
Those with rare allergies to sucrose or stearic acid.
Users of creams and lotions for stable, smooth application.
People sensitive to sugar esters in patch tests.
Individuals preferring mild, plant-derived surfactants in daily routines.
Users avoiding esters in minimalistic product preferences.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard with excellent safety profile in cosmetic use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores based on ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sucrose Distearate

What is sucrose distearate made from?

Sucrose from plants esterified with stearic acid from vegetable sources.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Yes, its mild nature and low hazard rating make it suitable for sensitive formulations.

What products commonly contain it?

Found in creams, lotions, and cleansers for emulsifying and softening.