Propylene Glycol Stearate

Propylene Glycol Stearate is an oil-soluble ester of propylene glycol and stearic acid that acts as an emulsifier and opacifying wax. It stabilizes emulsions, adds slip, and gives lotions, washes, and conditioners a creamy, pearly appearance.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An emulsifier that gives lotions a creamy, pearly appearance.
Category
Emulsifying, Skin Conditioning
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Improves glide and cushion for smoother application with a soft afterfeel. Contributes to an opaque, lustrous finish in products.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in moisturizing creams, shower gels, and rinse-out hair conditioners to improve texture and appearance.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Generally well tolerated with low irritation potential in both rinse-off and leave-on formats. Rarely, sensitive users may experience mild irritation. No known special regulatory limits at standard use levels.

Is Propylene Glycol Stearate a Good Ingredient?

It's a dependable emulsifier and opacifier that improves stability and texture, providing slip and a creamy appearance, which is enough for a Good rating. It rates Good rather than higher because the benefits are mainly sensory and structural rather than clinically active on skin.

Products with Propylene Glycol Stearate

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