Glycol Stearate

Functions
Surfactant
Opacifier
Pearliser
Thickener
Co-emulsifier
Pearlizing agent
Emollient
Detergent
Emulsifier
CAS Number(s)
111-60-4
EINECS number(s)
203-886-9
FDA UNII
0324G66D0E

Glycol Stearate is an ethylene glycol monostearate or EGMS, an ester of ethylene glycol with stearic fatty acid. It is a white to off-yellowish powder or a light waxy flake, mainly used as a surfactant, opacifier, and pearliser in cleansing applications such as shampoos or foaming bath products.

In some preparations, Glycol Stearate is used as a thickener, emulsion stabilizer (with an HLB of 2.0), or a consistency-providing (bodying agent) ingredient. It also can be used as a masking or softening agent with slight conditioning and antistatic properties.

EGMS is a vegetable-derived universal ingredient and can be incorporated in emulsions and water-free formulations. Glycol Stearate can be used as a pearlizing agent in shampoo and liquid hand soaps. It is typically used at 0.5-4%.

Synonyms
2-hydroxyethyl stearate
Ethylenglycoli Monostearas

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