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Moumoujus

GLYCOL STEARATE SE.

Valuable CAS 86418-55-5 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Glycol Stearate SE is a self-emulsifying ester primarily utilized to create stable oil-in-water emulsions in skincare formulations. Beyond its foundational role as an emulsifier, it imparts emollient and lubricating properties, forming a protective barrier on the skin to enhance hydration and promote a smooth, soft texture.

Summary

emulsifying emollient opacifying lubricant emulsion stabilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a self-emulsifying grade of Glycol Stearate, Glycol Stearate SE contains sodium and/or potassium stearate, enabling it to significantly reduce surface tension between immiscible phases. This facilitates the formation and stabilization of oil-in-water emulsions. On the skin, it functions as an emollient by depositing a non-occlusive, lubricating film that diminishes transepidermal water loss, thereby maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. Additionally, it can serve as an opacifying agent, enhancing the visual opacity of translucent products.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range 0.1–12%
Optimal

2%

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Glycol Stearate SE is a fatty ester that functions to blend oil and water phases, typically incorporated into the heated oil phase of formulations. It exhibits chemical stability under normal storage conditions and is largely compatible with most cosmetic ingredients. Its concentration can influence the final product's viscosity and texture.

Conflicts

  • strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
12%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has consistently affirmed the safety of Glycol Stearate and its derivatives, including Glycol Stearate SE, in cosmetic applications, with reaffirmations in 2001 and 2022. Historically, Glycol Stearate SE was reported for use up to 12%. Human studies on formulations containing Glycol Stearate (at 2-5%) demonstrated no evidence of skin irritation or sensitization. When plant-derived, it complies with EU cosmetic regulations. FDA data indicates its use in various unspecified skincare products.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Glycol Stearate SE is a valuable ingredient, essential for formulating stable emulsions and enhancing skin hydration and smoothness with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity across all skin types.

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