Starch Octenylsuccinate

Starch Octenylsuccinate is a plant-derived modified starch made through octenyl succinate esterification. It's used to stabilize emulsions, improve feel and texture, aid pigment dispersion, and cut greasiness in skincare and makeup.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A modified starch that stabilizes formulas and cuts greasiness.
Category
Emulsifying, Oil Control, Tone/Texture
Type
Emulsifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

It provides a softer, less greasy feel and can reduce surface shine for a more matte finish, helping makeup lay down more evenly and feel smoother on skin.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

It's common in oil-control primers, liquid foundations, setting powders, and lightweight lotions to improve glide and finish.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

It's considered low risk for skin irritation and non-sensitizing in typical cosmetic use. As a fine powder, avoid inhalation during handling; in finished products it poses minimal concern. No notable regulatory restrictions apply in cosmetics.

Is Starch Octenylsuccinate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good thanks to well-established performance as a texture and stability aid that boosts slip, reduces greasiness, and helps disperse pigments with low irritation potential. It's versatile across product types and pH ranges, though its role stays functional rather than treatment-focused.

Products with Starch Octenylsuccinate

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