What it is
This is the aluminum salt of stearic acid, used to gel and thicken oil phases and to coat or treat pigments so they disperse and resist water. It helps structure anhydrous and oil-rich formulas like sticks and balms.
Safety & warnings
Generally regarded as a safe, inert formulation aid in cosmetics.
Origin & sourcing
Made from stearic acid and an aluminum source.
Questions everyone asks
What does aluminum stearate do?
It thickens oil phases and helps coat pigments so they disperse evenly.
Is it the same as aluminum in antiperspirants?
No, it is a stearic-acid soap used as a texture and pigment aid, not an antiperspirant active.