Zinc Stearate is a white, fluffy powdered ingredient that acts as a thickening agent and lubricant in cosmetics. It gives texture and viscosity to formulations while enhancing the spreadability of products like creams, lotions, and powders. A zinc salt of stearic acid, this ingredient has mattifying properties and reduces shine by absorbing excess oil. Zinc Stearate normally finds applications in pressed powders, foundations, eyeshadows, sunscreens, and lipsticks. Additionally, it is compatible with a wide range of ingredients and can improve longevity and performance of cosmetic products. The chemical formula of Zinc Stearate is C36H70O4Zn.
CAS Number: 557-05-1Chem/IUPAC Name: Zinc dioctadecanoateEINECS/ELINCS No: 209-151-9COSING REF No: 38977Products with ZINC STEARATE
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Zinc Stearate (Dr. Paul Lohmann Mineral Salts)
by Dr. Paul Lohmann
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What is ZINC STEARATE used for?
Zinc Stearate has multiple functional properties. It serves as a binder in pressed powders, helping to compact pigments and prevent crumbling. Its anti-caking properties ensure smooth textures in loose powders, eyeshadows, and blushes. As a thickening agent, it adds viscosity to creams and lotions, while its lubricating and water-repellent qualities enhance the spreadability and longevity of products like foundations and sunscreens. Additionally, Zinc Stearate provides a silky, matte finish, making it ideal for mattifying products. It is also used in deodorants to improve texture and moisture control.
Origin
Zinc Stearate is made by reacting stearic acid with zinc oxide under controlled heating conditions. The process begins with heating stearic acid, derived from either plant or animal sources, to a molten state. Zinc oxide is then gradually added to the molten stearic acid, resulting in a chemical reaction that forms zinc stearate. The mixture is cooled, purified, and dried to achieve a fine, fluffy powder suitable for cosmetic use. The final product is non-toxic and meets cosmetic-grade standards.
What does ZINC STEARATE do in a formulation?
ANTICAKING|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLINGSafety Profile
Zinc Stearate is considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when applied topically. It is non-toxic, non-irritating, and non-comedogenic at typical cosmetic concentrations. However, inhalation of its fine powder during manufacturing poses respiratory risks, necessitating protective measures for workers.
ZINC STEARATE alternatives
ZINC STEARATE technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | 240°C |
| Melting Point | 128-130°C |
| pH | 6.5-8 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |