Stearyl Alcohol

DESCRIPTION- This organic compound is derived from the fatty acids of the sweet-smelling coconut and is mostly used as a moisturizer and thickener in skincare, haircare, and cosmetic items.

 INCI Name- Stearyl Alcohol

Molecular Formula- C₁₈H₃₈O 

Alternate Names- Octadecanol, Octadecyl Alcohol

Country of Origin- India

 BENEFITS AND USES-

• This is one of the most commonly found lubricating ingredients in shampoos, silicone-free conditioners, creams, shower gels, body butter, hair masks, crack creams, etc.
• You can add it to your moisturizers or base makeup products to achieve the glass-skin effect.
• It binds water to your skin making it look extremely hydrated and plump.
• It helps in deeper penetration of the active ingredients into the skin and enhances their efficacy.
• You can add it to your lotions and body butter to thicken them.
• Add it to your conditioners to achieve the smoothest hair possible while taming all the flyways.
• You can use it to thicken your formulations while ensuring they remain stable for long periods.

 HOW IT WORKS-

• It works by forming a layer over the skin and preventing water loss from the surface of the skin.
• It works as a stabilizer and emulsifier and prevents the separation of oil from water in various formulations.

CONCENTRATION AND SOLUBILITY- 

• It can be used at a concentration of 0.1%-50% depending on the formulation.
• It is soluble in water, alcohol, ether, and benzene.

HOW TO USE 

• Heat the water phase and the oil phase separately.
• Blend vigorously and add out pure stearyl alcohol to the mix.
• Continue blending until a homogenous mixture is formed.
• Adjust the pH of the formulation after adding other ingredients.