A glycerol and stearic acid ester, "Glyceryl Stearate" is also known under the names "Glycerol Stearate" or "Stearate of Glycerol". This denomination can be found among the ingredients of certain skin care or hair care products. What is "Glyceryl Stearate" ? What is its purpose? We provide some explanations.
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What is "Glyceryl Stearate" and what is its purpose?
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Published October 29, 2021,
updated on February 2, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
3 min read
What is "Glyceryl Stearate"?
The "Glyceryl Stearate" is classified among the non-ionic surfactants/emulsifiersor as a anemollient agent. It is obtained from the esterification of glycerine and stearic acid. The "Glyceryl Stearate" can be of plant or synthetic origin. This ingredient can notably be derived from olive oil, palm oil or rapeseed oil. In cosmetic formulas, it must be dissolved in an oily phase and heated to a recommended dosage between 6 and 8% of the final product.
Often offered in the form of small pellets, "Glyceryl Stearate" appears as a white or cream-coloured powder with a slight odour. It is used in the creation of various skin care products such as creams, lotions, skin cleansing treatments, etc... The "Glyceryl Stearate" is also a common ingredient in hair care products (shampoo, conditioner, etc...), as well as in certain make-up products (foundation, mascara, etc...). It is approved for use in organic products.
What is the purpose of "Glyceryl Stearate"?
The "Glyceryl Stearate" is often used as anon-ionic emulsifying agent. This ingredient allows the interfacial tension of two immiscible liquids, such as water and oil, to be altered. Its emulsifying action enables the easy mixing of oily and aqueous phases, thus creating stable emulsions without the need for a stabiliser. It therefore provides good stability to cosmetic products.
Glyceryl Stearate" is also used as an emollient in skincare. Often employed in moisturising treatments, it helps to hydrate, soften and smooth the skin. It thus gives the skin a soft and silky appearance. In hair care, "Glyceryl Stearate" is used for its antistatic properties : in other words, it helps to reduce or even eliminate static electricity.
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