Stearic Acid – 25kg (EP)

Key Features:

1. Fatty Acid: Stearic acid is a long-chain fatty acid with a 18-carbon chain (octadecanoic acid) and is often found in a solid, waxy form.
2. Versatile: It is a versatile ingredient with various applications, including as an emulsifier, thickener, stabilizer, and lubricant.
3. Saturated Fat: Stearic acid is a saturated fat, which means it does not contain double bonds between carbon atoms in its molecular structure.
4. Natural Sources: It can be derived from both animal and plant sources, such as tallow (animal fat) and palm oil (vegetable source).

Common Uses:

• Cosmetics and Skincare: Stearic acid is used in cosmetics and skincare products as an emulsifying agent, thickener, and stabilizer. It helps create stable emulsions, such as creams and lotions, and gives products a creamy texture.
• Pharmaceuticals: In pharmaceutical formulations, stearic acid is used as a lubricant in tablet and capsule manufacturing. It aids in the release of pills from molds and prevents them from sticking.
• Candles: Stearic acid is used in candle-making to harden and stabilize the wax, reducing dripping and prolonging burn time.
• Food Industry: It is used in the food industry as a food additive (E number E570) to prevent sugar crystallization in candies and improve the texture of certain food products.
• Industrial Applications: Stearic acid finds applications in various industrial processes, including the production of rubber, plastics, and soaps.

Benefits:

• Emulsification: In cosmetics and skincare, stearic acid helps create stable emulsions by allowing water and oil to mix, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
• Thickening: It serves as a thickening agent, giving products a rich and creamy texture.
• Stabilization: Stearic acid stabilizes formulations, preventing separation of ingredients over time.
• Lubrication: In pharmaceuticals, it acts as a lubricant, facilitating the manufacturing of tablets and capsules.
• Shelf Life: It can extend the shelf life of some products by preventing oil and water-based ingredients from separating.
• Improves Texture: In food applications, stearic acid enhances the texture of certain products.

Stearic acid is generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetics and skincare products, and it is widely used in the industry. However, the source of stearic acid (animal or plant-derived) can vary, and ethical and environmental considerations may influence its choice in some formulations.