Glyceryl Stearate in Skincare

Glyceryl Stearate

Produced from most vegetable oils, glyceryl stearate is the chemical attachment of glycerin molecules to stearic acid. This readily biodegradable compound is used extensively in the skincare industry. In this article, we will uncover the application and benefits of glyceryl stearate in skincare. Without wasting any time, let’s get started.

What is glyceryl stearate?

Glyceryl stearate, or Glyceryl Monostearate, is a fatty acid derived from oils (palm oil, soy oil, or vegetable oil). The esterification reaction of stearic acid and glycerin produces this wax-like substance. Glyceryl Stearate SE containing sodium or potassium stearate is a self-emulsifying form of Glyceryl Stearate. Interestingly, glyceryl stearate also occurs naturally within the human body.

Known for its emollient and surfactant properties, glyceryl stearate is an emulsifying agent in skin care products, including daily care cosmetics. It stabilises a product, makes it free-resistant, reduces the evaporation rate, and prevents surface crust development.

The presence of glycerol makes it a fast-penetrating emollient, helping to create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. The protective layer so developed is beneficial in slowing down moisture loss and maintaining the required level of hydration.

Importantly, glyceryl stearate is a plant-derived emulsifier, making it ideal for oil-in-water emulsification. Self-emulsifying glyceryl stearate derived from coconut or olive oil is popular in skincare products.

If you are tired of the claims of skincare brands promising round-the-clock hydration with their moisturisers, you should try the Acne Care & Healing Gel Moisturiser by The Pink Foundry, which contains Cica and tea extracts.

What does glyceryl stearate do in skincare products?

Some critical functions of glyceryl stearate in skincare products include the following.

Lubrication

Forming a lightweight, protective barrier on the skin, glyceryl stearate smoothens and softens the skin texture. Preventing your skin from moisture loss, you get a feel of elegance by using skincare products based on glyceryl stearate.

Emulsification

Glyceryl stearate is used to mix ingredients that usually do not mix well. When oils and water are combined, it extends a smooth and stable texture to the product.

Skin Penetration

The emulsification properties of glyceryl stearate aid deeper penetration of active ingredients such as Vitamin C and retinol. Deeper penetration inside the skin is beneficial for improved results.

Conditioning

Glyceryl stearate reduces the production of skin flakes. Because of its conditioning properties, it is beneficial in restoring suppleness for rich and flexible skin.

Skin Thickening

Glyceryl stearate provides substantial viscosity and creaminess in butter, cleansers, and moisturisers.

Glyceryl stearate benefits in skincare

Glyceryl stearate is a versatile ingredient that enhances the texture and efficacy of skin care products. Let us have a look at the top benefits of glyceryl stearate.

Preventing Moisture Loss

Glyceryl Stearate forms a lightweight, protective barrier on the surface of your skin, protecting it from moisture loss and ensuring that it stays supple and hydrated.

Smoothening of Skin

Glyceryl Stearate is an effective lubricant and conditioner in skincare products. Its presence ensures a non-greasy feel.

Improvement in Skin Texture

Glyceryl stearate reduces dryness and flaking in the skin, paving the way for an even, smoother surface with improved texture.

Improved Absorption of Ingredients

Glyceryl stearate allows better penetration of active ingredients such as retinol and Vitamin C.

Thickening Agent

It is used widely as a thickening agent for consistency in serums, moisturisers, and cleansers.

Stability Effect

Glyceryl stearate's presence in skincare products provides skincare benefits and increases their shelf life. Its emulsification properties prevent ingredients such as water and oils from separating.

Makeup Master

It allows makeup to stay on the skin, preventing it from falling off. For example, glyceryl stearate ensures smooth eyeshadow and eyeliner application and prevents mascara from clumping.

Precautions while using glyceryl stearate

Essential precautions to keep in mind while using glyceryl stearate are as follows.

Patch Test

You should perform a patch test before applying skincare products containing glyceryl stearate to your body for the first time. This could help you identify any potential allergic reaction or irritation.

Checking Ingredients’ List

There are two main reasons to thoroughly check the list of ingredients of skincare products containing glyceryl stearate.

• First, if the product contains too many ingredients besides glyceryl stearate, it might be heavy for your skin and trap unnecessary bacteria.

• Second, ensure separate preservatives are present in the formula to prevent microbial growth. Glyceryl stearate is not a preservative in itself.

Skin Tone Check

Glyceryl Stearate has a Comedogenic Rating of 1. That is, it is unlikely to cause logging of skin pores for most people. Still, people with highly acne-prone skin should exercise restraint while using glyceryl stearate products.

If you are still unsure, try Pore Care Combo by The Pink Foundry. It contains tea tree and circa extracts, which can help soothe and soften your skin.

Preventing Eye Contact

Avoiding direct contact between your eyes and skincare products containing glyceryl stearate is always advisable. Failure to do so can result in ocular irritation.

In summary, glyceryl stearate is usually a well-tolerated ingredient in skin care products. However, it is always advisable to tread cautiously for people with sensitive skin or allergies. For example, you could begin with a patch test. Consult a dermatologist if anything unusual occurs.

Conclusion

Glyceryl stearate is a commonly used ingredient in skincare products. Produced through a process similar to soap making, it is used for several reasons. This article shows how it acts as a lubricant and emulsifier and ensures deeper penetration of nutrients inside the skin. Like other skincare care products, it is always advisable to exercise caution while using products containing glyceryl stearate for the first time.