Very Disliked
Hydroxystearic Acid
Can worsen Seborrheic Dermatitis
Some ingredients are known to be potential triggers for seborrheic dermatitis. However, triggers vary greatly between individuals. Keep a diary to identify your personal triggers and work with a dermatologist to develop a gentle, effective routine.
May feed Fungal Acne
Non-fungal acne-safe products contain ingredients that can worsen fungal acne. If you suspect fungal acne, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis.
Explained
Hydroxystearic Acid is a C18 fatty acid derived from castor oil.
In cosmetics, it pulls triple duty:
- It has a gelling ability that can gel hydrocarbons as well as some silicones.
- It helps condition and soften skin as an emollient.
- The salts of this ingredient can also function as oil-in-water emulsifiers.
Reported use concentrations for this ingredient go up to about 13.2% in makeup but tends to be lower in skincare.
Fungal acne: Since hydroxystearic acid is a C18 fatty acid, it falls into the C11-24 range that the Malassezia yeast can metabolize. This ingredient may not be fungal acne safe.
See all 448 products with Hydroxystearic Acid
Users who like it
11%
Users who avoid it
89%
What it does
Cleansing
To free from dirt, contamination, or impurities
Emulsifying
The act of emulsion: a suspension of small globules of one liquid in a second liquid with which the first will not mix
Surfactant
When added to liquid, surfactants may act as detergents, wetting agents, emulsifiers, foaming agents, and dispersants
Prevalence
Less common
Percentage of products that contain it
0.3%
Top categories
Lip Care
Moisturizers
Makeup
Position
Predominant list placement
Top 50%
References
CosIng Data
CosIng ID
34555
INCI Name
HYDROXYSTEARIC ACID
EC #
203-366-1
All Functions
Cleansing, Emulsifying, Surfactant
