Ingredient · Updated
Stearic Acid
Found in 16 productsSee all
Toups & Co Cream Cheek Tint 
W3LL People Expressionist Pro Mascara 
W3LL People Expressionist Volumizing Mascara 
W3LL People Expressionist Lengthening Mascara 
BrainMD Happy Saffron Plus 
MegaFood Zinc, Vegan Immune Support High Potency Fermented Zinc Tablets 
Country Life Biotin High Potency Glass Bottle 
Monika Blunder Beauty Architect Eyes Buildable Mascara, Black What is Stearic Acid?
Stearic acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid commonly found in animal and plant fats. It is usually derived through the saponification process from fats and oils.
It is widely used in personal care products like lotions and soaps as an emulsifier and thickener, helping to stabilize and blend formulations. Stearic acid is also used in dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals to improve texture and consistency. The health evidence suggests that it is generally considered safe for topical use and consumption.
When you see stearic acid on a label, it indicates that the product may have improved texture or stability due to its presence. It is usually not associated with significant health risks when used in appropriate concentrations.
Commonly found in: Lotion, Deodorant, Sunscreen, Makeup, Brain Supplements, Soap
Benefits
- Helps stabilize and thicken product formulations.
- Has been used in skin care products for moisture retention.
Stearic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended uses.
Research indicates stearic acid is safe in cosmetics and food applications, with no significant adverse effects reported at typical use levels.
Stearic acid can be derived from both vegetable and animal sources, so vegan suitability depends on the specific source.
Sources: Review of stearic acid safety
Scout's take
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with Stearic Acid, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50There are no significant risks associated with stearic acid in cosmetic products.
from the analysis of La Roche Posay Anthelios Body & Face Soft Finish Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: Moisturizing Day Skin Care, SPF 50There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in some individuals.
from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian VanillaThere are minimal risks associated with stearic acid in cosmetics.
from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )It may cause irritation in very sensitive skin types.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Liquid Flush Cheek TintThe case for
It helps maintain the stability and consistency of the product, ensuring even application.
from the analysis of CeraVe Sunscreen Stick SPF 50It helps in stabilizing emulsions and enhancing the texture of the product.
from the analysis of La Roche Posay Anthelios Body & Face Soft Finish Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: Moisturizing Day Skin Care, SPF 50Stearic acid helps to maintain the structure and consistency of the lotion.
from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian VanillaIt helps to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic products.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Liquid Flush Cheek TintImproves the stability and texture of the product.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Architect Eyes Buildable Mascara, BlackMore from Scout's analyses
Stearic Acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and thickening agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps in stabilizing emulsions and improving the texture of the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of La Roche Posay Anthelios Body & Face Soft Finish Mineral Sunscreen Lotion: Moisturizing Day Skin Care, SPF 50Stearic acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and thickener in cosmetics. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.
from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian VanillaStearic acid is a fatty acid used as a lubricant in supplement manufacturing to ensure smooth processing. It is naturally found in various animal and plant fats and is generally recognized as safe. While it does not provide direct health benefits, it aids in the manufacturing process without adverse effects.
from the analysis of Country Life Biotin High Potency Glass BottleAll 16 products with Stearic Acid
Where Stearic Acid shows up
- Makeup 7 products
- Multivitamins 2 products
- Hair & Skin 2 products
- Sunscreen 2 products
- Brain Supplements 1 product
- Body Lotion 1 product
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