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