Ethylhexyl polyhydroxystearate

Ethylhexyl polyhydroxystearate is a nonionic polymeric emulsifier made from ethylhexyl alcohol and hydroxystearic acid. It builds stable water-in-oil systems, improves spreadability, and keeps pigments and UV filters evenly dispersed.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that keeps formulas from separating.
Category
Emulsifying
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps formulas stay mixed and resist separating, giving a consistent application. Creates a smooth, even laydown without a heavy feel.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used as a primary emulsifier in water‑in‑oil sunscreens, rich creams, and long‑wear foundations to keep textures uniform and UV filters evenly suspended.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Typically low irritation risk and considered well tolerated in leave‑on and rinse‑off formats. No notable regulatory restrictions are commonly cited for standard cosmetic use.

Is Ethylhexyl polyhydroxystearate a Good Ingredient?

Effective nonionic emulsifier for water-in-oil systems that keeps textures stable and application smooth, with consistent performance across sunscreens and rich creams. Because its value is purely functional rather than skin-benefiting, it rates Good rather than Great.

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