Glycol Distearate
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Octadecanoic acid, 1, 1′-(1, 2-ethanediyl) ester, Stearic acid, ethylene ester, 2-ethanediyl ester, Ethylene glycol distearate
Plays various roles in personal care products, including opacifying and skin-conditioning agent | May also be used as a viscosity increasing agent to enhance a formula’s texture
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Glycol Distearate?
Glycol distearate is a versatile ingredient that plays various roles in skin care formulations and other personal care products. Reported functions include: opacifying agent, skin-conditioning occlusive, and viscosity increasing agent (texture enhancer). This ingredient is particularly popular in hair care, as well as bubble baths, facial cleansers, makeup, and nail products.
Glycol distearate is the diester of ethylene glycol and stearic acid (fatty acid). It is described as a white to cream-colored waxy solid in its raw material form.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel has conducted several assessments of glycol distearate over the years, reaffirming its safe use in cosmetics. Their most recent report (in 2017) looked at products containing up to 13.1%.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed October 2021, ePublication [https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/glycol-distearate/]
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Cosmetic Ingredient Review, November 2017, pages 1-48 [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/magdae062017TR.pdf]
Frequently Asked Questions
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