Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate

Benefits
Softening

What is Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate?

Sucrose tetrastearate triacetate derives from sucrose, a disaccharide sugar sourced from plants such as sugarcane or beets, chemically modified through esterification with four stearic fatty acid molecules and acetylation with three acetate groups. This creates a versatile, waxy compound with balanced hydrophilic and lipophilic traits, commonly used in skincare emulsions like lotions, creams, and foundations. In formulations, it bridges oil and water components by forming protective films at their interface, ensuring product stability and uniform consistency. Its emollient nature allows it to deposit a smooth layer on skin, mimicking natural sebum to enhance slip and reduce friction, while supporting overall skin conditioning through lipid replenishment and moisture retention facilitation.

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:

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.
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 effect by smoothing skin's surface and improving texture.

Acts as an emulsifier to create stable, blendable oil-water mixtures in creams.

Conditions skin to promote flexibility and softness without heaviness.

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 gentle softening agents.
People with rare allergies to sucrose or fatty acid esters.
Users of lotions and creams desiring smooth, non-separating textures.
Those experiencing irritation from similar lipid-based ingredients.
Acne-prone skin types due to its non-comedogenic profile.
Individuals preferring completely unmodified natural sugars in products.

Safety Notes

  • Consistently rates as low hazard in verified cosmetic safety assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic with no pore-clogging concerns for most users.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate

What makes Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate unique?

It's a sucrose molecule modified with stearic acid and acetate for emollient and emulsifying balance in cosmetics.

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

Yes, it holds a low hazard rating and suits most skin types without comedogenic risks.

Does it help with skin texture?

It softens and smooths by filling surface roughness and aiding moisture retention.