Stearic acid 200 g

Stearic acid for cosmetics, soaps and candles

Stearic acid is a long-chain fatty acid, also called octadecanoic acid because of its 18-carbon chain. This valuable saturated fatty acid is the main component of cocoa and shea butter and when added to different products, it adds hardness and stability to them.

Characteristics of the component and specifics of use

INCI: Stearic acid

CAS № 67701-03-5

Fatty acid composition: 

• С18: 50-56
• С16: 44-49

Saponification number: 206-209

Acid number: 205-208

Dosage: 0.5 - 25%

• 0.5% in detergents and cleaning agents
• Up to 5% in emulsions and decorative cosmetics
• up to 25% in soaps and candles.

Solubility: in oil at 50-70 °C.

Certificate: GMP/HACCP, HALAL, KOSHER

Storage: in a cool dry room in hermetically sealed containers, do not store in direct sunlight.

Origin of stearic acid

Stearic acid is a waxy, colorless or white solid substance that emits a faint odor. The name “stear” comes from the Greek word meaning “fat,” as it is often derived from natural animal by-products and fats from meat processing; however, stearic acid can also be obtained from the fatty parts of plant sources, making it ideal for use in natural formulations. 

How stearic acid is used

Its properties in emulsions and cosmetics

In emulsions, stearic acid is an effective stabilizer, thickener and emollient, causing a cooling sensation on the skin. It is also often included in the formulations of decorative cosmetics. Recommended use for lotions and creams: 2-5%.

Use of stearic acid in soaps and cleansers

When added to soap formulations, stearic acid derivatives act as thickeners that help turn formulas into solids. That is, stearic acid gives soap hardness, increases lather stability, and imparts a matte finish.

It is used in soaps from scratch in concentrations up to 25% and is usually melted with the oils. On skin and hair, stearic acid removes excess oil, sweat, and dirt. This cleansing property makes it a useful additive in soaps, face and body washes, shampoos and even laundry detergents. Stearic acid adds conditioning properties to end products, and its preservative properties allow them to last longer. When added to shampoos, stearic acid acts as a protective conditioner that helps make hair soft, light and shiny. As a rule, it is added to cleansing products no more than 0.5%. 

Stearic acid as a component in candle making

When added to natural candle recipes, stearic acid acts as a hardening and stabilizing component. Adding stearic acid to a mixture of waxes or paraffin waxes makes it possible to make molded candles that can be stored outside of containers. In this case, stearic acid is added in amounts ranging from 10 to 25% depending on the waxes used in your formula.

Another benefit of stearic acid in candles is to extend the life of the candle, because the harder the wax, the longer it takes for the flame to melt it, resulting in a candle that burns much longer. Also, the opaque properties of stearic acid help to enhance the colors of added dyes.

Also, stearic acid is able to preserve the scent of the candle longer. Recommended use in candles: 3-5%, but dosage can be as high as 25% depending on what wax you are mixing with stearic acid and what candle hardness you want.