Ingredient · Updated
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Found in 13 productsSee all
W3LL People Bio Tint SPF 30 Tinted Moisturizer 
W3LL People Lip Butter SPF 15 Tinted Balm 
Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen 
Pipette Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 
Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32 
Monika Blunder Beauty Blunder Cover Foundation + Concealer 
W3LL People Expressionist Brow Pencil 
babo BOTANICALS Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 Sunscreen What is Polyhydroxystearic Acid?
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is a synthetic fatty acid derived from castor oil. It is primarily used in formulations to stabilize emulsions by keeping oil and water mixtures homogenous.
This ingredient is used in cosmetic products for its ability to provide consistency and stability to creams and lotions. While its use in cosmetics is generally regarded as safe, there is limited research specifically addressing long-term health effects related to its exposure.
When you see Polyhydroxystearic Acid on a label, it's typically there to maintain a product's texture, ensuring that it remains smooth and consistent throughout its shelf life.
Commonly found in: body lotion, lip care, sunscreen, makeup
Benefits
- Helps stabilize emulsions in cosmetic formulations.
- Contributes to a smooth and consistent texture in topical products.
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is permitted in personal care products without specific restrictions.
There is limited specific research on Polyhydroxystearic Acid, but its components are generally regarded as safe when used in typical concentrations.
Derived from plant sources, it typically aligns with vegan product standards.
Sources: Cosmetic Ingredient Review on Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Scout's take
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
The case against
There are no significant risks associated with polyhydroxystearic acid in cosmetic products.
from the analysis of La Roche Posay Anthelios Body & Face Soft Finish Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: Moisturizing Day Skin Care, SPF 50 · echoed in 1 other analysisThere are minimal risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen · echoed in 1 other analysisThere are minimal risks associated with Polyhydroxystearic Acid, primarily related to potential sensitivity in rare cases.
from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32There is a low risk of skin irritation, but it is generally well-tolerated.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Botanical Balm Hyaluronic Lip TintGenerally considered safe with minimal risk of irritation.
from the analysis of babo BOTANICALS Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 SunscreenThe case for
It helps in stabilizing emulsions and improving the consistency of the product.
from the analysis of La Roche Posay Anthelios Body & Face Soft Finish Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: Moisturizing Day Skin Care, SPF 50It provides a smooth application and enhances the product's stability.
from the analysis of Saltair Multi-Lipid Replenishing Body Butter - Salt Water VanillaIt aids in the stability and consistency of the product formulation.
from the analysis of Babo Botanicals Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 SunscreenIt helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.
from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32Contributes to a stable and consistent product formulation.
from the analysis of babo BOTANICALS Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 SunscreenMore from Scout's analyses
Polyhydroxystearic acid is used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. It helps to maintain the consistency and texture of products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Blunder Cover Foundation + ConcealerPolyhydroxystearic acid is used as a thickening agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Botanical Balm Hyaluronic Lip TintBiodegradable mineral-dispersing polymer.
from the analysis of Pipette Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50All 13 products with Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Where Polyhydroxystearic Acid shows up
- Sunscreen 8 products
- Lip Care 2 products
- Makeup 2 products
- Body Lotion 1 product
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