What it is
Sucrose distearate is a sucrose ester formed by combining sucrose with two units of stearic acid, producing a mild, biodegradable nonionic emulsifier. It helps blend oil and water phases and lends a soft, conditioned skin feel, making it popular in formulas aimed at gentleness. In sunscreens it is used to stabilize the emulsion and improve the sensory texture.
Safety & warnings
Sucrose esters are well tolerated and considered mild, which makes them a common choice for sensitive-skin and gentle formulations.
Origin & sourcing
Semi-synthetic; produced by esterifying sucrose (from sugar) with stearic acid (a fatty acid).
Questions everyone asks
What is sucrose distearate?
It is a mild sugar-based emulsifier made from sucrose and stearic acid that helps blend oil and water and conditions the skin.
Is sucrose distearate gentle?
Yes. Sucrose esters are regarded as mild and are often selected for sensitive-skin and gentle formulations.