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Emollient

Glyceryl Stearate SE

The self-emulsifying version of Glyceryl Stearate is a classic emulsifier for O/W creams that does not require additional co-emulsifiers. SE (Self-Emulsifying) means partial saponification: a mixture of Glyceryl Stearate with a small amount of sodium or potassium soap for self-emulsification.

Self-emulsifyingO/W emulsifierClassic creamFatty alcohol
⚠ Use with Caution
Comedogenic Rating
2/5
Irritation Potential
2/5

What is it?

Glyceryl Stearate SE (GMS-SE) is the "self-emulsifying grade" of Glyceryl Stearate: Glyceryl Stearate with a small amount (~3–5%) of sodium stearate or potassium stearate as a built-in co-emulsifier. HLB ~11–12. It differs from pure Glyceryl Stearate (GS, HLB ~3.8): GS is only a lipophilic co-emulsifier, requiring a pair (Ceteareth-20 or PEG-100 Stearate); GMS-SE is a standalone O/W emulsifier. It is a solid wax at room temperature. Melts at ~57°C. Widely used in cosmetics for over 100 years. Obtained from vegetable fats (palm, sunflower oil).

Classic moisturizing creams and body lotions, day and night creams for normal/dry skin, cream-textured makeup bases, massage creams.

Key Benefits

✦
Simple O/W emulsifier — stable cream without complex systems
GMS-SE is one of the simplest ways to achieve a stable O/W emulsion: just one substance without additional co-emulsifiers. At 3–6% in a cream with 20–30% oil phase — you get a stable cream with a shelf life of 1–2 years. This is why GMS-SE is the standard in classic cosmetic formulation and the production of basic cosmetic products from mass market to pharmacy brands.
◈
Creamy "fatty" texture of a classic cream
GMS-SE gives creams a characteristic "traditional moisturizer" texture: slightly fatty, well absorbed, leaving the skin soft and velvety. This "grandma's cream" feeling is something some consumers consciously seek — especially for dry, mature skin. Compared to modern polymer thickeners (AVC, Carbomer): GMS-SE provides a "richer," more nourishing texture.
✧
Conditioning and occlusion — barrier support
The fatty base of Glyceryl Stearate acts as a mild occlusive agent: it reduces TEWL (transepidermal water loss), supporting the skin's barrier function. Effective for dry and atopic skin, where restoring the lipid barrier is a priority. In night creams: GMS-SE in combination with ceramides and fatty acids provides a powerful occlusive effect.

Suitable for

Dry and mature skinClassic cream texturesBarrier care

Main Actions

✓ Self-emulsifying O/W emulsifier✓ Creamy texture✓ Soft occlusion
GMS-SE vs GMS (plain) — difference in use

Glyceryl Stearate (plain, HLB ~3.8): lipophilic co-emulsifier, ALWAYS requires a pair — usually PEG-100 Stearate or Ceteareth-20 for a stable O/W emulsion. Glyceryl Stearate SE (HLB ~11–12): self-emulsifying, can stand alone. On the INCI packaging, both are written as 'Glyceryl Stearate' — the difference is only visible from the details or the manufacturer's SDS. GMS-SE is a more frequent choice for manufacturers for simplicity in formulation.

CategoryEmollients

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Glyceryl Stearate SE do for skin?
Classic moisturizing creams and body lotions, day and night creams for normal/dry skin, cream-textured makeup bases, massage creams.
Who should use Glyceryl Stearate SE?
Glyceryl Stearate SE is suitable for: Dry and mature skin, Classic cream textures, Barrier care.
Are there any warnings about Glyceryl Stearate SE?
Glyceryl Stearate (plain, HLB ~3.8): lipophilic co-emulsifier, ALWAYS requires a pair — usually PEG-100 Stearate or Ceteareth-20 for a stable O/W emulsion. Glyceryl Stearate SE (HLB ~11–12): self-emulsifying, can stand alone. On the INCI packaging, both are written as 'Glyceryl S

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