About Stearic Acid
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Documentation
Identification
- Synonyms: Stearic Acid, 1-heptadecanecarboxylic acid, cetylacetic acid, stearophanic acid, n-octadecylic acid and n-octadecanoate
- INCI Name: Stearic acid
- CAS: 57-11-4
- Einecs: 200-313-4
The Science
- Derived from: Bovine/Pork and soybean
- Viscosity: Solid
- Solublity: Soluble
- Storage: Cool, dark dry area, air tight container preferred
Characteristics
- Appearance: White or yellowish, waxy solid flakes
- Odor: Low to no scent
- Natural: Derived from Bovine/Pork and soybean
- Packaging: 1 Lbs is a single plastic bag, 4 Lb is a single plastic bag, 16 lb is 4 x 4 lb bags, 50 lb is single bag
- Shelf life: Indefinite, We suggested retest date 5 year from purchase
Usage / Benefits
- Industries: Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry, Food Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Candle Manufacturing, Rubber and Plastic Industry, Textile Industry, Metal Processing, Lubricants and Grease Manufacturing
- Applications: Emulsifier and Thickener in Cosmetics, Gelling Agent in Food Products, Binder in Pharmaceutical Tablets, Hardening Agent in Candle Manufacturing, Vulcanization Agent in Rubber Processing, Stabilizer in Plastics, Softening Agent in Textiles, Lubricant in Metal Processing, Ingredient in Lubricants and Greases
- Benefits: Versatility in Various Products, Thickening and Stabilizing Agent, Non-Toxic, Enhances Texture and Consistency, Cost-Effective, Readily Available, Excellent Emulsifying Properties, Helps in Creating Hard and Durable Products, Stable at Various Temperatures and pH Levels
- Products Uses: Thickener in Creams and Lotions, Stabilizer in Baked Goods, Emulsifier in Chocolates, Binder in Pharmaceutical Tablets, Hardening Agent in Candles, Vulcanization Agent in Rubber Products, Softening Agent in Textiles, Lubricant in Machinery, Component in Metalworking Fluids, Stabilizer in Plastic Manufacturing
- Safety: Generally safe, however keep out of eyes and do not eat.
- Cautions: Not for ingestion, keep away from pets and children who may attempt to eat.
- External Use Only: Even if food grade, we do not provide items for ingestion, all of our items are for external use only.
Stearic acid
Stearic acid used in detergents, shampoos, shaving cream. The small pastilles are ideal in an emulsifying agent in creams lotions and deodorants.
Stearic Acid can be used in making cosmetics, candles, foods, oil pastels, dietary supplements, plastics and softening rubber. In soap making it is used to harden soaps, especially soaps made with vegetable oil. It can also be found in toothpastes and deodorant. Stearic Acid is used to bind, stabilize and thicken creams and lotions and is the premier choice for most body care product manufacturers. Stearic Acid should be used to thicken lotions and creams at about 2-5%.
In cosmetics, the esters of Stearic Acid can be used in addition to glycol distearate, ethylene glycol and glycol stearate to create a pearlescent effect. This pearlescent effect is used in soaps, shampoos and other cosmetic products. While the product is in molten form these ingredients are added and then allowed to crystallize in controlled conditions.
Stearic Acid is used in the manufacturing of shortenings, spreads, cream bases for baked products and margarines. It is also in cocoa butter and beef fat. Along with corn syrup or sugar it can be used as a hardener in candies. It is used in the packaging of foods as well.
When eaten, Stearic Acid does not appear to increase the cholesterol levels in the blood, unlike most of the saturated fats,. This is because enzymes in the liver convert it to an unsaturated fat during the digestive process.
Stearic Acid can be used in fireworks to coat metal powders such as iron and aluminum. This coating prevents the oxidation of these powders so the compositions can be stored for longer amounts of time. Stearic Acid is also commonly used as a lubricant in the pressing of ceramic powders and injection molding.
Stearic Acid is a saturated fatty acid found in various animal and vegetable fats. Its unique properties have made it a valuable ingredient in personal care, soap making, and cosmetic industries. The following sections delve into its significant applications and benefits in these areas.
Personal Care Products
Stearic Acid is a key component in various personal care products due to its multifaceted functionality. It acts as a thickener and emulsifier, providing the desired consistency and texture to lotions, creams, and other skin-care products.
Soap Making
In soap making, Stearic Acid plays an essential role by providing hardness and consistency to the soap bars. When used with lye, it undergoes saponification, turning into soap. It also contributes to the soap's longevity and stability.
Its compatibility with various fragrances and colorants allows for creative flexibility in soap crafting. By adjusting the quantity of Stearic Acid, soap makers can control the hardness and lather quality of the soap, tailoring it to specific preferences.
Cosmetics
Stearic Acid finds wide applications in cosmetic manufacturing, including make-up products like foundations, eyeliners, and lipsticks.
Emulsifying Agent: It acts as an emulsifying agent, allowing water and oil components to blend seamlessly, creating a uniform and stable product.
Thickening Agent: Stearic Acid's thickening properties are used to achieve the desired consistency in creams and lotions, enhancing their feel and application.
Texture Enhancement: The smooth texture that Stearic Acid imparts is particularly valued in make-up products, where it ensures a smooth and even application.
Stabilizing Agent: In cosmetics, it helps maintain product integrity and extends shelf life by stabilizing various formulations.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Stearic Acid can be sourced from both animal and vegetable fats. The choice of source may be guided by ethical or environmental considerations. Vegetable-based Stearic Acid, often derived from palm oil or coconut oil, provides an alternative for those seeking vegan or more sustainable options.
Stearic acid Uses
Stearic acid, a long-chain fatty acid, is commonly derived from both animal and vegetable fats. Its unique properties have secured its position as an essential ingredient in a plethora of cosmetic and personal care products. The following explores the diverse uses of stearic acid in these sectors.
1. Skin Care Products
Stearic acid is incorporated into numerous skincare formulations due to its skin-friendly attributes. It acts as an emollient, softening and hydrating the skin, making it a primary ingredient in creams, lotions, and moisturizers. Additionally, stearic acid boosts the skin's protective barrier, safeguarding it from environmental pollutants.
2. Soap Production
A foundational element in traditional soap-making, stearic acid reacts with alkalis to produce soap. This reaction not only yields soap but ensures the resulting product is solid, durable, and less prone to dissolving quickly in water. Consequently, stearic acid is prevalent in bar soaps and shaving creams.
3. Hair Care Products
Stearic acid's emollient properties are not restricted to skincare alone. In hair care formulations, it aids in conditioning and softening the hair. As a result, stearic acid can often be found in hair conditioners, serums, and masks, contributing to smoother, shinier locks.
4. Make-up and Cosmetics
The cosmetic industry leverages stearic acid as a thickening agent, which is vital for achieving the desired consistency in products ranging from foundations to mascaras. Its ability to stabilize emulsions ensures that cosmetic products maintain an even texture, facilitating better application and longer wear. Moreover, as an opacifying agent, stearic acid is used to adjust the transparency of cosmetic products, enhancing their visual appeal.
5. Deodorants and Antiperspirants
The consistency-modifying properties of stearic acid find use in deodorants and antiperspirants, ensuring they have a smooth texture for easy application. Additionally, it helps bind other ingredients together, improving the product's stability and efficacy.
6. Fragrance Production
Stearic acid acts as a fixative in the production of fragrances. It aids in prolonging the scent's longevity, ensuring that the fragrance remains potent for longer durations on the skin.
Stearic acid Benefits
Stearic acid, a fatty acid predominantly sourced from animal fats and some vegetable oils, is a staple in numerous cosmetic and personal care products. Revered for its multifaceted properties, it adds tangible value to formulations, enhancing their texture, stability, and efficacy.
1. Emollient Properties
Stearic acid is well-known for its skin-softening attributes. As an emollient, it assists in locking in the skin's natural moisture, making products feel luxurious while providing a silky-smooth application. This is especially beneficial in moisturizers, lotions, and creams where a smooth texture and skin hydration are paramount.
2. Thickening Agent
In the realm of cosmetics and personal care, consistency matters. Stearic acid acts as a thickening agent, ensuring that products have the desired consistency, whether it be a dense cream or a lighter lotion. This property is indispensable in products like mascaras, where a specific texture can drastically affect application and wear.
3. Opacifying Agent
Transparent or translucent products might not always be the desired outcome, especially in personal care products where a creamy appearance is more appealing. Stearic acid, when added to formulations, can make products appear more opaque, adding to their aesthetic appeal.
4. Soap Making
Stearic acid is a crucial component in the soap-making process. It reacts with lye to produce a solid soap bar. Additionally, stearic acid contributes to the soap's hardness and durability, ensuring it doesn't dissolve rapidly when exposed to water.
5. Stabilizing Emulsions
Formulating stable emulsions is a cornerstone of cosmetic science. Stearic acid plays a pivotal role in this, helping to bind oil and water components, ensuring they don't separate over time. This stability is crucial in products like foundations and sunscreens that rely on a consistent mixture for even application and protection.
6. Enhancing Skin's Protective Barrier
While stearic acid provides tangible benefits to product formulations, it also offers benefits to the skin. It strengthens the skin's protective barrier, helping to shield it from environmental stressors, pollutants, and moisture loss. This makes it a preferred ingredient in skincare products aimed at both protection and hydration.
FAQ
Stearic Acid vs Cetyl Alcohol
Stearic Acid and Cetyl Alcohol are two distinct ingredients often used in cosmetic and skincare products for different purposes:
1. Source
Stearic Acid: Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid derived from animal or vegetable fats. It can be found in various natural sources.
Cetyl Alcohol: Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from natural sources such as coconut or palm oil.
2. Function
Stearic Acid: Stearic acid is used as an emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer in formulations. It helps create a stable texture and consistency in products.
Cetyl Alcohol: Cetyl alcohol is often used as a thickening agent, emollient, and texture enhancer. It adds a creamy texture and improves spreadability.
3. Texture
Stearic Acid: Stearic acid can contribute to a more solid and stable texture in products, making it suitable for creams and lotions.
Cetyl Alcohol: Cetyl alcohol lends a smooth and velvety texture to products, making it valuable for creating lightweight creams and lotions.
4. Absorption
Stearic Acid: Stearic acid is less likely to penetrate the skin deeply and is often used in products that provide a protective barrier.
Cetyl Alcohol: Cetyl alcohol has emollient properties and can be absorbed by the skin, contributing to softness and hydration.
5. Suitability for Skin Types
Stearic Acid: It can be suitable for drier skin types due to its barrier-forming properties.
Cetyl Alcohol: Cetyl alcohol is often well-tolerated by various skin types, including sensitive skin, due to its moisturizing effects.
6. Common Products
Stearic Acid: Found in creams, lotions, and products that require a thicker consistency.
Cetyl Alcohol: Used in lightweight lotions, creams, and hair products to improve texture and spreadability.
Choosing the Right Ingredient
The choice between Stearic Acid and Cetyl Alcohol depends on the specific formulation and desired properties for your cosmetic or skincare product. Consider the texture, skin type, and function you're aiming for when selecting the appropriate ingredient.
Stearic Acid for Hair Care
Stearic Acid is a fatty acid that is commonly used in various hair care products. Its unique properties make it a valuable ingredient in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products.
Properties of Stearic Acid
- Emulsifying Agent: Stearic Acid helps blend water with oils, creating a smooth texture in hair care products.
- Thickening Agent: It can add thickness and consistency to hair products, improving their stability and feel.
- Conditioning Effect: Stearic Acid offers a conditioning effect that leaves hair feeling soft and manageable.
Common Uses in Hair Care Products
Stearic Acid is incorporated in various hair care applications, such as:
- Shampoos: Enhancing texture and helping to cleanse the hair.
- Conditioners: Aiding in detangling and providing a smooth finish.
- Hair Styling Products: Offering hold and structure to hairstyles.
Benefits for Different Hair Types
- Curly Hair: Helps in defining curls and reducing frizz.
- Dry Hair: Assists in locking in moisture, promoting softer hair.
- Thick Hair: Provides control and manageability to dense hair.
Considerations When Purchasing Hair Products with Stearic Acid
When selecting hair products containing Stearic Acid, consider the following:
- Source: Stearic Acid can be derived from various sources, including plant-based options for those avoiding animal derivatives.
- Compatibility: Ensure the product aligns with your hair type and specific needs.
- Other Ingredients: Check for additional ingredients that may complement or conflict with your hair care goals.
Precautions
Stearic Acid is generally considered safe for use in hair care products, but as with any ingredient, individual sensitivities may vary. A patch test or consultation with a hair care professional may be advisable if you have specific concerns.
Natural Stearic Acid
Natural Stearic Acid is a fatty acid commonly used in various cosmetic and skincare products for its valuable properties:
1. Source
Natural Stearic Acid is derived from plant-based fats and oils. It can be obtained from sources such as coconut oil, palm oil, and shea butter.
2. Function in Products
It serves as a versatile ingredient with several functions:
Emulsifier: Natural Stearic Acid helps blend oil and water components in formulations, creating stable mixtures.
Thickener: It contributes to the texture and viscosity of products, enhancing their stability and feel on the skin.
Emollient: Natural Stearic Acid has emollient properties, making it effective for moisturizing and softening the skin.
3. Formulation Benefits
When used in cosmetic products, natural Stearic Acid:
Enhances Texture: It lends a smooth and creamy texture to formulations, improving spreadability.
Stabilizes Emulsions: It aids in creating stable mixtures of water and oil, important for products like creams and lotions.
Provides Longevity: Natural Stearic Acid can help extend the shelf life of formulations by acting as a preservative booster.
4. Skin Benefits
Natural Stearic Acid offers various benefits for the skin:
Moisturization: It helps lock in moisture, contributing to hydrated and supple skin.
Barrier Function: Natural Stearic Acid can support the skin's natural protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and environmental damage.
Softening: It imparts a soft and smooth feel to the skin, aiding in maintaining its overall texture.
5. Sustainability
Choosing natural sources of Stearic Acid aligns with sustainability efforts, as it encourages the use of renewable plant-based resources.
Using Natural Stearic Acid
When incorporating natural Stearic Acid into formulations, consider its role in achieving the desired texture, stability, and skin benefits. Its plant-derived origin makes it a favorable choice for those seeking natural skincare options.
Stearic Acid for Skin Care
Stearic Acid, a long-chain fatty acid, is often found in various skin care products. Its unique characteristics make it a versatile and valuable ingredient for skin health and beauty.
Properties of Stearic Acid
- Emollient: Stearic Acid helps to soften and soothe the skin, creating a luxurious texture in products.
- Stabilizer: It acts as a stabilizer and thickener, giving creams and lotions a desirable consistency.
- Cleansing Agent: It has mild cleansing properties that can remove dirt and excess sebum without stripping the skin.
Common Uses in Skin Care Products
Stearic Acid is used in a variety of skin care applications, including:
- Moisturizers: Enhancing hydration and skin barrier function.
- Cleansers: Offering gentle cleansing for various skin types.
- Lotions and Creams: Providing texture and stability to emulsions.
Benefits for Different Skin Types
- Dry Skin: Adds moisture and helps seal in hydration.
- Sensitive Skin: Offers gentle care without harsh effects.
- Oily Skin: Can be used in balanced formulations to cleanse without over-drying.
Considerations When Purchasing Skin Products with Stearic Acid
When looking for skin care products containing Stearic Acid, consider the following:
- Source: Stearic Acid can be derived from various sources; plant-based options may be preferred for certain preferences or skin types.
- Formulation: Consider the overall formulation and how Stearic Acid complements other ingredients in the product.
- Certifications: Look for products that align with specific values, such as cruelty-free or organic.
Precautions
Stearic Acid is generally considered safe for topical use in skin care, but individual sensitivities may vary. Performing a patch test or consulting with a skin care professional may be advisable if you have specific concerns or skin conditions.
Sources of Stearic Acid
Stearic Acid, a commonly used ingredient in various industries, is derived from different sources:
1. Animal Sources
Stearic Acid can be obtained from animal fats, such as tallow or lard. It is a saturated fatty acid found naturally in some animal-based oils.
2. Plant Sources
Plant-based oils also serve as sources of Stearic Acid:
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains a significant amount of Stearic Acid, making it a valuable source for skincare and cosmetic products.
Palm Oil: Palm oil is another plant-derived source of Stearic Acid that's commonly used in various formulations.
Shea Butter: Shea butter, extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, contains Stearic Acid and is often used in skincare products.
3. Vegetable Fats
Other vegetable fats and oils, such as cocoa butter and olive oil, may also contain varying amounts of Stearic Acid.
4. Synthetic Production
In addition to natural sources, Stearic Acid can also be produced synthetically through hydrogenation of unsaturated fats.
Choosing Stearic Acid Sources
When selecting Stearic Acid sources, consider factors such as:
1. Sustainability
Opt for sources that align with sustainability practices, such as plant-derived options that are responsibly sourced.
2. Specific Applications
Choose sources based on the intended application. Different sources may offer distinct properties for different products.
3. Personal Preferences
Consider your preference for natural or synthetic sources, as well as any ethical or environmental considerations.
Understanding the various sources of Stearic Acid helps in making informed choices for its use in a wide range of products.
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Disclaimer: All product descriptions and specifications provided in this description are intended as a guide only and are subject to change without notice. While we strive for accuracy, discrepancies or errors may be present. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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