Isostearyl Isostearate
An emollient ester. It softens skin and gives a soft slip, common in color cosmetics. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A functional emollient. Safe.
- 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 Isostearate is an ester of isostearic acid and isostearyl alcohol, a branched fatty molecule. INCI: Isostearyl Isostearate. In a formula it works as a rich emollient: it softens skin, gives creams a smooth enveloping texture, holds moisture, and improves pigment spread in color cosmetics. Its branched structure makes it more oxidation-stable than straight oils. 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, but rich emollients are introduced more cautiously on very oily, acne-prone skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Isostearyl Isostearate safe during pregnancy?
Isostearyl Isostearate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Isostearyl Isostearate for?
Isostearyl Isostearate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Isostearyl Isostearate and what does it do in cosmetics?
An emollient ester.
Is Isostearyl Isostearate comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 2/5 – low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Isostearyl Isostearate?
The INCI name is Isostearyl Isostearate.
See Isostearyl Isostearate in a product composition right on the store page
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.
Similar role in the formula
Explore by category
Published: · updated: