Collection: Stearic Acid

Functional, Actives & Additives

Octadecanoic Acid

Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid found naturally in animal fats and many plant oils,particularly shea butter, cocoa butter, and mango butter. In cosmetic formulation it serves as a thickener, emulsifier, and hardening agent that is particularly valuable in solid body care formulas,lotion bars, lip balms, and body butters where a firm but melt-on-contact texture is desired.

We use stearic acid in select body care and balm formulas where its excellent hardening and emollient properties contribute to the structure and skin feel of the finished product. It is one of the most well-established and widely used fatty acids in cosmetic formulation, with a long safety record and excellent performance across a wide range of formula types.

How It Works

Stearic acid's high melting point makes it an effective hardening agent that remains solid at room temperature but melts readily on contact with skin. As an emollient it leaves a protective, moisturizing layer on the skin surface that helps prevent transepidermal water loss. As an emulsifier it helps bind oil and water phases together in formulas that contain both. Its natural origin,present in the butters already used in our formulas,means it integrates naturally and compatibly with our botanical ingredient base.

Found In

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For external use only. The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.