Glyceryl stearate in skincare
An ester of glycerol and stearic acid.
What is glyceryl stearate?
An ester of glycerol and stearic acid. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Glyceryl Stearate. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does glyceryl stearate do for skin and the product?
Helps blend and stabilise water and oil phases and can soften skin.
Water and oil do not mix stably on their own. Emulsifiers help hold the two phases together. Their role differs from preservatives, which protect against microbial growth.
Glyceryl stearate and glyceryl stearate SE are different INCI names with different formulation roles.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about glyceryl stearate
What does glyceryl stearate do in skincare?
Helps blend and stabilise water and oil phases and can soften skin.
What should I know about glyceryl stearate?
Glyceryl stearate and glyceryl stearate SE are different INCI names with different formulation roles.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations