Glyceryl stearate
Glyceryl stearate is a mixture of glycerin esters of stearic and palmitic acids, mostly monoesters with some di- and triesters. It is made by glycerolysis of vegetable fats (often palm or soy) or by esterifying stearic acid with glycerin. In cosmetics it is used as a co-emulsifier and thickener in creams and lotions. Brands buy it as white flakes or beads in two main types: plain (non-self-emulsifying) and self-emulsifying (SE) grades that contain a small amount of soap.
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
Plain mono- and diglyceride of stearic acid, typically about 40 to 55% monoester, used as a co-emulsifier and thickener.
Self-emulsifying grade containing a few percent of potassium or sodium stearate, which can emulsify on its own but is sensitive to low pH and electrolytes.
Molecularly distilled grade of 90% or more monoester, more common in food and pharmaceutical uses.
Related esters and blends with PEG-100 stearate or other emulsifiers, each with its own INCI name.
Palm-based grades with RSPO certification, and grades from vegetable sources with kosher or halal certificates.
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
Store glyceryl stearate sealed in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Beads can fuse if warmed and slowly change crystal form over time. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification, with a retest of acid value and appearance for older stock.
Monoester and soap content differ between suppliers and grades, so record the grade (SE or non-SE), monoester content and source oil for each lot. Do not substitute SE for non-SE grades without a test batch.
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
21 CFR 184.1324 describes glyceryl monostearate as prepared by glycerolysis of edible fats or oils or by esterifying edible-source stearic acid with glycerin, and permits its use in food with no limitation other than current good manufacturing practice.
Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)21 CFR 310.545(a)(18) lists glyceryl stearate among skin protectant ingredients for which there are inadequate data to establish general recognition of safety and effectiveness as OTC drug actives.
Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists glyceryl monostearate (common names include glyceryl stearate, CAS 31566-31-1) with non-medicinal purposes including emulsifying agent, lubricant and stabilizing agent.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists glyceryl stearate SE (proper name self-emulsifying glyceryl monostearate) as a non-medicinal emulsifying surfactant for topical use only, citing CIR.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
Manufacturer · Philadelphia, PA
Sells it as SustOleo GMS
Philadelphia maker of personal care ingredients, including esters, emollients, emulsifiers and preservation components, with its main production site in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Suppliers are in alphabetical order and none pays to appear. Each claim is checked against the supplier’s own website on the date shown. Ask for the specification sheet and a recent COA before you order, and confirm details with the supplier.
Common forms include glyceryl stearate (non-SE), glyceryl stearate SE, distilled monoglyceride, glyceryl stearate citrate and blends and rSPO, kosher and halal. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
Expect monoester content, free glycerin, acid, iodine and saponification values, soap content (SE grades), melting range and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
Store glyceryl stearate sealed in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Beads can fuse if warmed and slowly change crystal form over time. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification, with a retest of acid value and appearance for older stock.
21 CFR 184.1324 describes glyceryl monostearate as prepared by glycerolysis of edible fats or oils or by esterifying edible-source stearic acid with glycerin, and permits its use in food with no limitation other than current good manufacturing practice. 21 CFR 310.545(a)(18) lists glyceryl stearate among skin protectant ingredients for which there are inadequate data to establish general recognition of safety and effectiveness as OTC drug actives. Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists glyceryl monostearate (common names include glyceryl stearate, CAS 31566-31-1) with non-medicinal purposes including emulsifying agent, lubricant and stabilizing agent. Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists glyceryl stearate SE (proper name self-emulsifying glyceryl monostearate) as a non-medicinal emulsifying surfactant for topical use only, citing CIR.
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