Glyceryl Stearate

Glyceryl stearate is an ester of glycerin and stearic acid widely used as an emulsifier and emollient in skincare. It's used to stabilize oil-in-water systems, improve spreadability, and add a soft, conditioning finish to creams and lotions.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A gentle emulsifier that softens skin and eases dryness-related tightness.
Category
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning, Barrier Support, Hydration
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

Low

Skin Benefits

Nourishes for a soft, supple feel and helps reduce tightness from dryness. Supports a more comfortable, conditioned complexion.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in moisturizers, creams, and lotions as a structure-building co-emulsifier. Also used in cleansers and body butters to create a smooth, creamy texture.

Comedogenic Rating

Glyceryl Stearate has a comedogenic rating of 2. It has a low likelihood of clogging pores but may not suit all skin types.

Safety

Widely tolerated with a low irritation potential. Typically non-sensitizing and not restricted by major regulators in leave-on skincare.

Is Glyceryl Stearate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Great because it's an exceptionally well-studied emulsifier and emollient with strong stability and safety data across a wide range of skin types. It gives a soft, conditioned feel with a low likelihood of irritation and supports consistently elegant textures, the kind of dependable, broad track record that earns the top tier.

Products with Glyceryl Stearate

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