An emollient fatty acid. It thickens the formula and stabilizes the emulsion, and softens skin. Well tolerated.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A functional fatty acid. Safe.
Hydroxystearic Acid (INCI: Hydroxystearic Acid) is an emollient fatty acid derived from stearic acid. In a formula it plays a double role: it thickens the texture and stabilizes the emulsion, while also softening the skin and leaving a more comfortable feel. It is a functional ingredient with a texture and emollient role, not a treatment active. It does not fix wrinkles or pigmentation; its value is in the product's structure and feel. At that task it is effective and very common in creams and solid formulas. Applied topically it is not meaningfully absorbed, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is high, with low irritation potential and low allergy risk. Its comedogenic rating is very low (1), so it rarely causes problems, even on oily-prone skin.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Hydroxystearic Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Hydroxystearic Acid suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
An emollient fatty acid.
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Hydroxystearic Acid. It may also appear as: Гидроксистеариновая кислота.
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