Ingredient Guide
Stearic Acid
Also known as: Stearic Acid, Octadecanoic Acid
All skin types
What It Is
A saturated fatty acid naturally found in skin sebum and many plant and animal fats. Used in cosmetics as an emulsifier, emollient, and cleansing agent.
What It Does
Helps create stable emulsions in creams and lotions, conditions the skin, and is part of the natural fatty acid profile of the skin barrier.
Best For
Emollient skin conditioningEmulsification support
Benefits
- Skin-identical — naturally found in sebum
- Emulsifying and conditioning
- Non-irritating and widely well tolerated
When to Be Careful
- Some reports of comedogenicity in very high concentrations — not a concern at typical usage levels
Commonly Found In
Barrier creamsBody lotionsNMF moisturizersEmulsions
FAQs About Stearic Acid
Is stearic acid the same as stearyl alcohol?
No — stearic acid is a fatty acid; stearyl alcohol is derived from stearic acid but has different chemical properties. Both are used as emollients and emulsifiers in skincare.