Sodium Stearate
What Sodium Stearate is & what it does
Sodium Stearate is the sodium salt of stearic acid, a common fatty acid, and acts as an emulsifier, thickener, and gelling agent in cosmetic formulas. In creams, lotions, and stick products it helps blend oil and water phases and lends structure or firmness to the texture. It is also a classic soap component, so it contributes mild cleansing and surfactant behavior.
What does Sodium Stearate do in skincare?
Sodium Stearate acts as an emulsifier, thickener, and gelling agent. It helps blend the oil and water parts of a formula and adds structure or firmness, which is why it appears in creams, lotions, and stick products. It is also a classic soap component with mild cleansing action.
Is Sodium Stearate safe?
Sodium Stearate is a common, well-established cosmetic ingredient that is generally considered safe at the levels used in skincare and soap. Because it is soap-derived it can feel drying for some people in cleansing products, so reactions are usually mild if any.
Is Sodium Stearate vegan?
Sodium Stearate can be vegan, but it depends on the source. The stearic acid it is made from may come from plant oils or from animal fats, so a vegan claim requires confirmation from the brand or supplier.
Sunscreens with Sodium Stearate
We rate 10 sunscreens that contain it:
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Happier Sunscreen Stick
93/100
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Clinique Redness Solutions Daily Protective Base SPF 15
83/100
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Clinique City Block Sheer Oil-free Daily Face Protector Broad Spectrum SPF 25 Primer
82/100
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Dr. Fischer Ultrasol Med Protect & Calm SPF 50+ For Sensitive Skin
69/100
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Dr. Fischer Ultarsol Free Facial Sunscreen For Kids SPF 50
69/100
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Dr. Fischer Ultrasol SPF 30
61/100
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Dot & Key Sunscreen Stick
59/100
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Gush Sunscreen Stick SPF 60 Pa +++ UVA + UVB+
59/100
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Emma Hardie Protect & Prime Moisturiser SPF 30
52/100
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Vacation Super Stick SPF 45 Face Stick Sunscreen
49/100