Snapshot
- Overview
- A soap-forming ingredient that cleanses and helps bars hold shape.
- Category
- Cleansing, Emulsifying
- Type
- Surfactant
Sodium Stearate
Sodium stearate is the sodium salt of stearic acid commonly formed by saponification and used in toiletries. It acts as a cleansing surfactant and structurant, enabling solid sticks, opaque bars, and rich, stable foams.
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Our take
Is Sodium Stearate a Good Ingredient?
It rates Good as an effective cleansing surfactant and structurant with a long track record, though its soap-like alkalinity can be drying for some skin types, which keeps it out of the top tier.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It cleanses by lifting excess oil and debris while producing a satisfying lather, and helps products hold their shape for convenient, low-mess use.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's found in deodorant sticks, facial cleansing bars, and shaving soaps to provide cleansing action and solid structure.
Before you use it
Safety
It's generally safe, especially in rinse-off formats, but may cause dryness or mild irritation with frequent use or on sensitive skin due to higher pH. Avoid broken skin and eye contact.
Products with Sodium Stearate
