Zinc Laurate

What is Zinc Laurate?

Zinc laurate is the zinc salt derived from lauric acid, a saturated medium-chain fatty acid commonly sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils. In cosmetics, it appears mainly in powder-based and anhydrous formulations like pressed powders, eyeshadows, and deodorants. It functions by absorbing excess moisture to act as an anticaking agent, preventing lumps in dry products for better flow and uniformity. As a slip modifier, it reduces friction, allowing smoother application on skin. It also serves as a viscosity controlling agent, helping stabilize product consistency without water. Additionally, its opacifying properties create a non-transparent, creamy appearance while masking imperfections in suspensions. This multifunctional ingredient supports formulation stability and sensory appeal in makeup and personal care items.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 2 View on EWG →

PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Anticaking agent

Prevents powders from clumping by reducing moisture pickup and improving flow, keeping loose and pressed powders uniform during storage and use.

Slip modifier

Improves the spreadability and glide of products on skin.

Viscosity controlling agent

Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Opacifying agent

Makes a formula less transparent to create a creamy, opaque look; can also help visually mask suspended particles and improve aesthetic uniformity.

Benefits

Maintains powder integrity by absorbing moisture and preventing clumping for consistent texture.

Enhances product glide for effortless, even application on skin.

Optimizes thickness and opacity for improved stability and visual uniformity.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Users of loose or pressed powders seeking clump-free products.	People with known zinc allergies.
Individuals preferring smooth-spreading makeup formulations.	Those sensitive to fatty acid derivatives.
Those wanting stable, opaque textures in anhydrous cosmetics.	Users of water-based products where it offers minimal benefit.

Safety Notes

Rated low hazard by EWG with score of 2, indicating limited concerns.
Non-comedogenic with rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zinc Laurate

What is zinc laurate used for in cosmetics?

It prevents clumping in powders, improves spreadability, controls viscosity, and adds opacity.

Is zinc laurate safe for skin?

Yes, it has a low EWG hazard score of 2 and is non-comedogenic.

Does zinc laurate clog pores?

No, its comedogenic rating is 0, making it suitable for most skin types.