Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate

Good

Emollient

Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate at a glance

  • Skin-conditioning emollient that delivers a soft, smooth after feel
  • Locks in moisture without producing a tacky finish
  • Can be used to add glossy shine to lip care and hair care formulations
  • Deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel

Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate description

Ethylhexyl hydroxystearate is a skin-conditioning emollient that delivers a soft, smooth after feel. Suppliers of this ingredient tout its ability to lubricate skin’s surface and lock in moisture, without creating a tacky finish. It can also be used to add glossy shine to lip care and hair care formulations. Ethylhexyl hydroxystearate has been shown to be effective in low concentrations but can safely be used in higher concentrations up to 18%, according to the 2015 Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment.

Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate references

  • Lubrizol, Accessed January 2022, ePublication
  • Croda, Accessed January 2022, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2015, pages 5S-69S

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.