Glycol Stearate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Glyceryl Ester
Mixture of glycerin and stearic acid | Functions as an emollient, surfactant, and emulsifier
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Glycol Stearate?
Glycol stearate is a mixture of glycerin and stearic acid used as an emollient, surfactant, and emulsifier. May also be used to impart a pearlescent appearance to a formula.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed March 2021, ePublication [https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/glycol-stearate/]
-
MakingCosmetics.com, Accessed March 2021, ePublication [https://www.makingcosmetics.com/PRL-GYSIP-01-125.html?lang=en_US]
-
Chemistry and Materials Research, 2015, page 59 []
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Glycine Soja Protein
A plant-derived protein that conditions skin and may help support barrier function
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
Glycol Palmitate
A multifunctional ester that stabilises formulations while conditioning skin
Glycol Stearate Se
A gentle emulsifier that helps bind water and oil in skincare formulations
Grape Seed Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters
A plant-derived cleansing agent that removes oil-based impurities whilst conditioning the skin
Hippophae Rhamnoides Acid
A plant-derived acid that conditions skin and helps stabilise formulations
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.