Stearic Acid
Category: Emulsifier, thickener, stabilizer
Brief description: Stearic acid is a fatty acid derived from plant or animal sources, used as an emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits: Helps to create stable emulsions, improves the texture and consistency of cosmetic products, and provides skin conditioning and hydration benefits.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types.
Target audience: All age groups and demographics.
Chemical composition: Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid with the molecular formula C18H36O2.
Physical aspect: White to off-white, waxy solid with a faint, fatty odor.
Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients, including water, oils, and other emulsifiers.
Concentration: Typically used at 0.5-5% in cosmetic formulations.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally safe for use in cosmetics, with a low risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
Regulatory status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, with no specific restrictions.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Can be derived from natural sources, such as plant oils (e.g., palm, coconut) or animal fats (e.g., tallow); however, concerns have been raised about the environmental and ethical impacts of palm oil and animal-derived ingredients. Sourcing stearic acid from sustainable and ethical sources, such as certified sustainable palm oil or plant-based alternatives, is recommended.
Brief description: Stearic acid is a fatty acid derived from plant or animal sources, used as an emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations.
Benefits: Helps to create stable emulsions, improves the texture and consistency of cosmetic products, and provides skin conditioning and hydration benefits.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types.
Target audience: All age groups and demographics.
Chemical composition: Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid with the molecular formula C18H36O2.
Physical aspect: White to off-white, waxy solid with a faint, fatty odor.
Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients, including water, oils, and other emulsifiers.
Concentration: Typically used at 0.5-5% in cosmetic formulations.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally safe for use in cosmetics, with a low risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
Regulatory status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, with no specific restrictions.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Can be derived from natural sources, such as plant oils (e.g., palm, coconut) or animal fats (e.g., tallow); however, concerns have been raised about the environmental and ethical impacts of palm oil and animal-derived ingredients. Sourcing stearic acid from sustainable and ethical sources, such as certified sustainable palm oil or plant-based alternatives, is recommended.
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