Isostearyl Isostearate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Ester, Isostearic Acid, Stearic Acid
Liquid emollient ester that helps prevent moisture loss | Improves the texture of makeup products such as lipstick
At a glance
Things to be aware of
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Isostearyl Isostearate?
Isostearyl isostearate is a vegetable-derived or synthetic liquid emollient ester that helps prevent moisture loss, softens skin, improves an impaired barrier, and can enhance the texture of products such as lipstick. This emollient is also used as a binding agent to keep the dry ingredients in powder-based products together.
Isostearyl isostearate is stable and, unlike natural oils, not prone to rancidity. It has a more cosmetically elegant texture than mineral oil, so is sometimes used to replace this ingredient.
Usage levels of isostearyl isostearate in skin care are typically between 2–10% depending on formulary needs and other emollients present. It is considered safe and non-irritating as used in cosmetics.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2015, pages 5S–69S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581815594027]
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International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2012, pages 502–512 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2012.00744.x]
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International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2010, pages 304–312 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00604.x]
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- ISOSTEARYL ISOSTEARATE
- EC Number
- 255-485-3
- Function
- Binding, Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Isopropyl Palmitate
Texture enhancer and emollient.
Isopropyl Shea Butterate
A lightweight ester that conditions skin while maintaining a smooth, non-greasy feel
Isosteareth-200 Linoleate
A plant-derived emollient that conditions and softens the skin
Isostearyl Neopentanoate
Ester of isostearyl alcohol and neopentanoic acid
Isostearyl Palmitate
An emollient ester that conditions skin, though evidence suggests caution for acne-prone individuals
Isotridecyl Isononanoate
A lightweight synthetic emollient that conditions and smooths without heaviness
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