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Emollient

Glyceryl Stearate

Natural emulsifier based on glycerin and stearic acid — one of the most common and safest emulsifiers in cosmetics. Glyceryl Stearate provides creams with a classic stable texture and softens the skin.

Natural emulsifierGlycerinSofteningCOSMOS
⚠ Use with Caution
Comedogenic Rating
1/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Glyceryl Stearate — an ester of glycerin and stearic acid (C18). Obtained from plant or animal fats. Typically used as a co-emulsifier together with cetearyl alcohol or PEG-100 Stearate. COSMOS approved. In INCI: Glyceryl Stearate or Glyceryl Stearate SE (self-emulsifying).

Standard emulsifier in moisturizing creams, lotions, and sunscreens. One of the most common ingredients in classic cosmetics.

Key Benefits

✦
Stable classic emulsion
Forms stable O/W emulsions of classic creamy consistency — a time-tested standard in moisturizing creams and lotions.
◈
Natural origin and COSMOS compatibility
Obtained from plant fats — rapeseed, sunflower, or palm oil. Allowed in certified organic cosmetics COSMOS.
✧
Softening and conditioning the skin
Thanks to its stearic base, it softens the stratum corneum and gives the skin a characteristic "creamy" feel after application.

Suitable for

Suitable for all skin typesDry skinSensitive skin

Main Actions

✓ Emulsification✓ Softening✓ Stabilization of O/W emulsions✓ COSMOS compatibility
Glyceryl Stearate vs Glyceryl Stearate SE

Glyceryl Stearate — requires a co-emulsifier (e.g., cetearyl alcohol or PEG-100 stearate). Glyceryl Stearate SE (self-emulsifying) — contains soap that helps to form the emulsion without additional emulsifiers. The SE version may irritate sensitive skin.

CategoryEmollients

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Glyceryl Stearate do for skin?
Standard emulsifier in moisturizing creams, lotions, and sunscreens. One of the most common ingredients in classic cosmetics.
Who should use Glyceryl Stearate?
Glyceryl Stearate is suitable for: Suitable for all skin types, Dry skin, Sensitive skin.
Are there any warnings about Glyceryl Stearate?
Glyceryl Stearate — requires a co-emulsifier (e.g., cetearyl alcohol or PEG-100 stearate). Glyceryl Stearate SE (self-emulsifying) — contains soap that helps to form the emulsion without additional emulsifiers. The SE version may irritate sensitive skin.

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