• Acts as a co-emulsifier and thickener
• Improves texture and viscosity of creams and lotions
• Hardens and opacifies soaps and candle blends
• Plant-based version available (Palm or Coconut source)
• Compatible with most surfactants, waxes, and emulsifiers

Stearic Acid – Versatile Fatty Acid for Creams, Soaps & Cosmetics

Stearic Acid is a saturated long-chain fatty acid derived from plant or animal fats. In cosmetic and personal care formulations, it's widely used as a thickener, hardener, and stabilizer. This white waxy solid is essential in emulsions like creams and lotions, helping improve product texture and skin feel. It’s also crucial in cold and hot process soap making, increasing hardness and opacity. Due to its dual nature (hydrophilic and lipophilic), Stearic Acid is a foundational ingredient in many DIY formulations—from skin butters and shaving creams to candles and hair conditioners.

INCI Name: Stearic Acid

CAS Number: 57-11-4

Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in alcohol and oils

Add Phase: Heated oil phase

pH Stability: Stable in wide pH range

Processing Temperature: 60–75°C

Appearance: White, waxy flakes or powder

Odor: Mild fatty odor

Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₆O₂

Molecular Weight: 284.48 g/mol

Flash Point: > 110°C

Density: ~0.85 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Saturated fatty acid

Functional Groups: Carboxylic acid

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Creams, lotions, soaps, deodorants, hair care, candles

• Usage Rate: 2–25% depending on application
• Recommended Additions: Used alongside emulsifiers like E-wax or Cetyl Alcohol
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

Stearic Acid can be used to boost the stability of emulsions and harden bar soaps without synthetic additives. For a smoother texture in creams, combine with Cetyl Alcohol or Glyceryl Stearate.

✔️ Normal

✔️ Oily

✔️ Dry (with moisturizers)

❌ Avoid in acne-prone formulations above 5%

1. Rich Body Butter Base

10% Stearic Acid

8% Shea Butter

5% Emulsifying Wax

3% Cetyl Alcohol

1% Fragrance

73% Distilled Water

2. Thick Cold Cream

5% Stearic Acid

8% Mineral Oil

3% Lanolin

1% Beeswax

2% Glycerin

81% Water

3. Shaving Foam Base

7% Stearic Acid

5% Coconut Oil

10% Triethanolamine

78% Water

Serums
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩


Toners
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Deodorants
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Eye Creams
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜


Shampoos
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜


Soaps
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩


Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable
🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜


Lip Balms
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜


Body Butters
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩


Ointments
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜

Q1: Is Stearic Acid safe for all skin types?

It is generally safe for most skin types when used appropriately, but high concentrations may not be ideal for acne-prone or very sensitive skin.

Q2: Is Stearic Acid vegan?

It depends on the source. At Bio Shop™, we supply plant-based (palm or coconut-derived) Stearic Acid.

Q3: Can I use Stearic Acid alone to make a cream?

No, it should be combined with an emulsifier or co-emulsifier to form stable creams or lotions.

Q4: Does it need to be melted before use?

Yes, Stearic Acid must be melted during the heated oil phase of your formulation.

Q5: What is the difference between Stearic Acid and Cetyl Alcohol?

Stearic Acid is a fatty acid and harder/thicker, while Cetyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol that offers more glide and conditioning in emulsions.