What it is
Ethylhexyl stearate is a light, oily liquid ester that gives formulas a smooth, slip-rich feel and helps spread other ingredients evenly across the skin. In sunscreens it is used as an emollient and can serve as a carrier that helps dissolve or disperse oil-soluble UV filters. It imparts a soft afterfeel and contributes to a uniform film.
Safety & warnings
Ethylhexyl stearate is generally well tolerated and used across many leave-on products. As a fatty ester it carries some potential to feel rich on very oily or acne-prone skin, and emollient esters of this type are sometimes reported as moderately comedogenic, so individuals prone to congestion may prefer to patch test.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; manufactured by esterifying stearic acid with 2-ethylhexanol. The starting materials may be derived from plant or petrochemical feedstocks.
Questions everyone asks
What is ethylhexyl stearate used for?
It is an emollient that adds slip and smooth spreadability and can help disperse oil-soluble UV filters.
Is it natural or synthetic?
It is synthetic, made by combining stearic acid with 2-ethylhexanol.