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ISOCETYL STEAROYL STEARATE

Last update on Dec 3, 2024
Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is a potent moisturizing and texturizing agent that is valued for enhancing the sensory feel and performance of personal care and makeup products. It is a synthetic ester that softens and smooths the skin by forming a protective barrier and reducing moisture loss. It has a non-greasy texture and gives a rich, silky feel to formulations. In its raw form, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate appears as a pale yellow liquid or semi-solid which has an excellent compatibility with oils, waxes, and silicones, making it super versatile. It is commonly found in lotions, creams, moisturizers, makeup products, and sunscreens. The chemical formula of Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is C52H102O4.
CAS Number: 97338-28-8Chem/IUPAC Name: Isohexadecyl 12-[(1-oxooctadecyl)oxy]octadecanoateEINECS/ELINCS No: 306-621-6COSING REF No: 34630

Products with ISOCETYL STEAROYL STEARATE

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Dermol 16-SS

by Alzo International

INCI: ISOCETYL STEAROYL STEARATE
  • Sustainable option

Hetester® HSS

by Alzo International

INCI: ISOCETYL STEAROYL STEARATE
  • Sustainable option

What is ISOCETYL STEAROYL STEARATE used for?

Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is a versatile emollient widely used in cosmetics for its ability to enhance texture and performance. It is a key ingredient in skin care products like creams, lotions, and serums, providing a smooth, non-greasy finish and improving hydration by reducing water loss. In makeup, it is used in foundations, lipsticks, and primers to enhance spreadability, wearability, and sensory appeal. Its lightweight film-forming properties make it ideal for sun care products, ensuring even application. In hair care, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate adds softness, shine, and frizz control. Additionally, it stabilizes emulsions, improving product consistency and overall user experience.

Origin

Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is synthesized through the esterification process, where isocetyl alcohol (a branched-chain fatty alcohol) reacts with stearic acid (a saturated fatty acid). This reaction typically occurs in the presence of a catalyst, such as sulfuric acid or an enzyme, under controlled heat and pressure. The resulting ester is purified to remove any unreacted starting materials and byproducts.

What does ISOCETYL STEAROYL STEARATE do in a formulation?

MOISTURISING|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
SKIN PROTECTING|
SMOOTHING

Safety Profile

Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is regarded as safe and non-toxic for use in cosmetics. Regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EU Cosmetic Regulation approve its use within the concentrations of 1% - 5%. However, patch testing is advisable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to fatty alcohols or acids. Apart from this, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate has a low to moderate risk of being comedogenic - meaning it may clog pores in some individuals, especially those with oily or acne-prone skin. It is necessary to ensure compatibility with individual skin types before wider application.

ISOCETYL STEAROYL STEARATE alternatives

ISOCETYL STEAROYL STEARATE technical profile

Property Values
pH 6-7
Solubility Insoluble in water; highly soluble in oil
Viscosity Low to medium