C16-36 ALKYL STEARATE
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
An ester of stearic acid with mixed C16-36 alkyl alcohols — an emollient that conditions and softens skin while helping to thicken and stabilize cosmetic formulations.
C16-36 Alkyl Stearate is the ester of stearic acid with a mixture of C16 to C36 long-chain aliphatic alcohols. The mixed chain length provides a balanced profile of emolliency and texture modification. Shorter chains in the mixture improve blendability while very long chains provide occlusive protection. It functions as a skin-conditioning emollient and viscosity-increasing agent in cosmetic emulsions. The ingredient is structurally similar to other well-established long-chain alkyl stearates (such as cetyl stearate and behenyl stearate), which have a long history of safe use.
Skin benefits
- Skin-conditioning emollient — softens and smooths skin
- Barrier-forming occlusive — reduces water loss
Known concerns
- Mixed chain lengths — some fractions may crystallize at low temperatures affecting product stability
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.