A metallic salt of stearic acid. It thickens and gives powder slip and skin adhesion. Well tolerated.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A functional thickener. Safe.
Zinc Stearate is the zinc salt of stearic acid. It's used mainly in powder makeup, pressed powders and some creams, where it thickens the formula and adds slip and adhesion of the product to the skin. On efficacy: a functional texture ingredient, not a skincare active. It improves feel, coverage and the powder's ability to lay down evenly. It treats no skin condition; its value lies in formulation and use experience. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is fine for topical products. Tolerance is good, with low irritation and allergy potential. Comedogenicity is very low (rating 1), so it rarely causes problems, though very oily, acne-prone skin may want to watch it in heavily occlusive products. Suitable for sensitive 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.
Zinc Stearate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Zinc Stearate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A metallic salt of stearic 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 Zinc Stearate. It may also appear as: Цинка стеарат.
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