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Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate

What Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is & what it does

Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is a synthetic ester made from fatty alcohols and fatty acids, used in cosmetics as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. In a sunscreen or lotion it gives a smooth, cushiony glide and helps disperse UV filters and pigments evenly across the skin. A notable property is its silky, non-greasy slip, which makes formulas feel lighter than heavier plant oils.

What does Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate do in skincare?

Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is an emollient and skin-conditioning ester. It gives creams and sunscreens a smooth, silky slip, helps spread the formula evenly, and supports a soft, cushioned skin feel. It also assists in dispersing pigments and UV filters.

Is Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate natural or synthetic?

Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is a synthetic ester, made by combining fatty alcohols and fatty acids that may themselves be sourced from plant or petrochemical raw materials. The finished ingredient is produced through chemical synthesis rather than harvested directly from nature.

Is Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate vegan?

Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate is generally considered suitable for vegan formulas because it is a synthetic ester, and its fatty raw materials are commonly plant-derived. Sourcing can vary by manufacturer, so brands that certify vegan status are the most reliable way to confirm it for a specific product.

Sunscreens with Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate

We rate 29 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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