Emollient

Glyceryl Stearate

Natural emulsifier based on glycerin and stearic acid — one of the most common and safest emulsifiers in cosmetics. Glyceryl Stearate provides creams with a classic stable texture and softens the skin.

Natural emulsifierGlycerinSofteningCOSMOS

⚠ Use with Caution

Comedogenic Rating

1/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Glyceryl Stearate — an ester of glycerin and stearic acid (C18). Obtained from plant or animal fats. Typically used as a co-emulsifier together with cetearyl alcohol or PEG-100 Stearate. COSMOS approved. In INCI: Glyceryl Stearate or Glyceryl Stearate SE (self-emulsifying).

Standard emulsifier in moisturizing creams, lotions, and sunscreens. One of the most common ingredients in classic cosmetics.

Key Benefits

✦

Stable classic emulsion

Forms stable O/W emulsions of classic creamy consistency — a time-tested standard in moisturizing creams and lotions.

◈

Natural origin and COSMOS compatibility

Obtained from plant fats — rapeseed, sunflower, or palm oil. Allowed in certified organic cosmetics COSMOS.

✧

Softening and conditioning the skin

Thanks to its stearic base, it softens the stratum corneum and gives the skin a characteristic "creamy" feel after application.

Suitable for

Suitable for all skin typesDry skinSensitive skin

Main Actions

✓ Emulsification✓ Softening✓ Stabilization of O/W emulsions✓ COSMOS compatibility

Glyceryl Stearate vs Glyceryl Stearate SE

Glyceryl Stearate — requires a co-emulsifier (e.g., cetearyl alcohol or PEG-100 stearate). Glyceryl Stearate SE (self-emulsifying) — contains soap that helps to form the emulsion without additional emulsifiers. The SE version may irritate sensitive skin.

CategoryEmollients

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