Ingredient
Stearyl Alcohol
What is Stearyl Alcohol?
Stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from stearic acid, which is commonly sourced from coconut or vegetable oils. It appears as a white, waxy solid that is often used in various cosmetic products.
Stearyl alcohol is primarily used as an emollient and emulsifier. It helps products maintain a smooth texture and stabilizes formulations by preventing the separation of ingredients. The health evidence suggests it is generally safe for topical use, with no major concerns reported for skin products.
When you see stearyl alcohol on a label, it is important to note it is different from the kind of alcohol that dries out the skin, like ethanol. It's considered safe and beneficial for most hair and skincare routines.
Commonly found in: Conditioners, Lotions, Creams, Deodorants, Shampoos
Benefits
- Helps stabilize and maintain the texture of personal care products.
Considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
Research indicates stearyl alcohol is largely non-irritating and safe for use in topical applications.
May be derived from plant-based sources, making it potentially suitable for vegans, but origins should be verified as some sources are animal-based.
Scout's take
Fatty alcohol used as emollient/thickener. Considered safe.
The case against
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk For Thick Curly HairRarely, it may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian VanillaThere are minimal risks associated with Stearyl Alcohol.
from the analysis of Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body and Face Lotion Retinol Face and Body Lotion with Peptide ComplexThere are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
from the analysis of Kiehl's Since 1851 Creme de Corps Body Lotion with Cocoa ButterMay cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )The case for
It provides a creamy texture and helps to soften the skin and hair.
from the analysis of SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk For Thick Curly Hair · echoed in 1 other analysisIt helps to soften and smooth the skin, enhancing the texture of the lotion.
from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian VanillaContributes to the creamy texture of lotions and helps to lock in moisture.
from the analysis of Beauty By Earth Self Tanner Tanning Lotion - Fair to Medium Fake Tan Self Tanning Lotion for Body Gradual Tanning Lotion Self Tanner for Natural Looking Self Tan Sunless Tanner Tan LotionIt helps to soften and condition the skin, improving texture.
from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )It acts as an emollient and thickener in formulations.
from the analysis of Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body and Face Lotion Retinol Face and Body Lotion with Peptide ComplexMore from Scout's analyses
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
from the analysis of Native Coconut & Vanilla Moisturizing ConditionerStearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener in cosmetics. It helps to stabilize and thicken formulations. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian VanillaStearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener in cosmetic formulations. It helps to improve texture and stability. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Style Milk For Thick Curly HairFound in 17 products
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