Isostearyl Alcohol
A fatty alcohol emollient. It softens skin, stabilizes the emulsion and gives a smooth texture. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A functional fatty alcohol. Safe; fatty alcohols do not dry skin.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Isostearyl Alcohol is a branched fatty alcohol. INCI: Isostearyl Alcohol. In a formula it works as an emollient, co-emulsifier, and texture modifier: it softens skin, gives an enveloping slip, and helps stabilize the emulsion. It is not a drying alcohol but a fatty softening component. Its branched structure makes it liquid and oxidation-stable. It is a functional sensory component, not a skincare active. Pregnancy safety. Systemic absorption through intact skin is low and there is no evidence of harm. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. Irritation and allergen potential are low, suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Isostearyl Alcohol safe during pregnancy?
Isostearyl Alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Isostearyl Alcohol for?
Isostearyl Alcohol suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Isostearyl Alcohol and what does it do in cosmetics?
A fatty alcohol emollient.
Is Isostearyl Alcohol comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Isostearyl Alcohol?
The INCI name is Isostearyl Alcohol.
See Isostearyl Alcohol in a product composition right on the store page
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Ingredients in the same category
Isostearyl Isostearate, Isostearyl Neopentanoate, Isotridecyl Isononanoate, Jojoba Oil, Polyglycerin-3, Tyrosine, Carrageenan, Glyceryl Stearates
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