emulsifiersStandard

Glyceryl Stearate

Glycerol Monostearate

emulsifieremollientthickener
CAS Number:31566-31-1

INCI Name

Glyceryl Stearate

Functions

3 Roles

Sustainability

7/10

Category

emulsifiers

What It Does

Glyceryl Stearate is a waxy, cream-colored solid formed by the esterification of glycerin with stearic acid, typically derived from palm or coconut oil. It's one of the most widely used emulsifiers in cosmetics due to its excellent ability to create stable oil-in-water emulsions while also providing mild emollient properties and a pleasant skin feel. Formulators particularly value its self-emulsifying properties and its ability to impart a rich, luxurious texture to creams and lotions without greasiness.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures
Creates elegant cream textures
Enables layered formulations
Improves ingredient distribution

Technical Properties

HLB Value

3.8

Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

thickening

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

low

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

nonionic surfactantsoilswaxesmost emollientssilicones

Avoid Combining

strong acidsstrong baseshigh concentrations of electrolytes
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

7/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

mixed

Feedstock

vegetable oils and glycerin

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