Magnesium Stearate

Magnesium stearate is the magnesium salt of stearic acid, a hydrophobic, fine white powder. Pressed powders and sticks use it to improve slip, boost adhesion, and create a smoother, more uniform application.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A mineral powder that helps makeup glide on and last longer.
Category
Skin Conditioning, Tone/Texture
Type
Emollient

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Improves glide for easier application and helps color cosmetics stay in place longer, reducing patchiness for a more even-looking finish.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Widely used in pressed powders, eyeshadows, blushes, and stick formats like lipsticks or foundation sticks to boost payoff and wear.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Considered low irritation in topical use; sensitivities are uncommon. As a fine powder, avoid inhalation during application. No major cosmetic regulatory restrictions are typically cited.

Is Magnesium Stearate a Good Ingredient?

Its strengths are slip and adhesion rather than measurable skin conditioning, so the benefits are primarily cosmetic, which is why it lands at Fair. In higher loads it may feel heavy or occlusive for some users.

Products with Magnesium Stearate

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