Glyceryl Stearate is made by combining glycerin and stearic acid (a fatty acid derived from animal and vegetable fats). Glyceryl stearate is a light-colored, waxy solid. It plays three important roles in skin products:
- Acts as a lubricant that gives the skin a soft and smooth appearance
- Acts as an emulsifier which means it’s the glue that holds other ingredients together in a consistent texture
- Forms a barrier on the skin’s surface which slows the loss of water from the skin
The FDA and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (CIR) have both determined that glyceryl stearate is safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products.
