EGMS (Ethylene glycol monostearate)

INCI Name

GLYCOL STEARATE

 Ingredient Origin

Synthetic

Produced from stearic acid and ethylene glycol

Purity / Grade

• Cosmetic Grade

• Typically supplied as flakes or pellets

• White to off-white solid with pearling effect

BENEFITS & USES

 Key Benefits

• Provides pearlized and creamy appearance

• Acts as an effective opacifier

• Enhances viscosity and body of formulations

• Improves sensory feel and product aesthetics

• Compatible with common surfactant systems

 Typical Applications

• Shampoos and hair cleansers

• Body washes and shower gels

• Liquid soaps and hand washes

• Facial cleansers (rinse-off)

• Pearlized cosmetic cleansing products

HOW IT WORKS 

EGMS works by forming tiny crystal structures in liquid formulations. These crystals reflect light, giving products a pearly or milky look. At the same time, EGMS thickens the formula and improves texture, making cleansers feel smoother and richer.

CONCENTRATION & SOLUBILITY

 Recommended usage levels

• 0.5–2% for pearling and opacity

• Up to 3% for a stronger visual and thickening effect

 Solubility details

• Insoluble in water

• Dispersible in surfactant systems with heat

• Oil-dispersible

FORMULATION GUIDELINES

• pH: Stable between pH 5.0–8.0

• Temperature: Melt and add at 65–75 °C

• Compatibility: Compatible with SLES, CAPB, AOS, glucosides

• Excess levels may reduce clarity intentionally (for pearl systems)

HOW TO USE 

• Melt EGMS before addition

• Add to surfactant phase during heating

• Cool slowly with gentle stirring to develop a pearling effect

SAFETY & REGULATORY INFORMATION

• Cosmetic ingredient for external use only

• Non-therapeutic, non-medical claims only

• Intended mainly for rinse-off formulations

• Use within recommended cosmetic limits

• Compliant with Indian cosmetic regulations (CDSCO)

STORAGE & SHELF LIFE

• Store in a cool, dry place

• Keep container tightly closed

• Shelf life: 24–36 months in unopened packaging