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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

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Ingredient
Glycol Distearate

Glycol Distearate

Summary

Glycol Distearate is a widely used cosmetic ingredient that functions as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener. It is a white, waxy substance that is derived from stearic acid and ethylene glycol. Glycol Distearate is commonly found in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and other personal care products due to its ability to create a rich, creamy lather and provide a smooth, silky feel to the skin and hair. It is also known for its ability to enhance the stability and texture of formulations. Despite its many benefits, Glycol Distearate may cause skin irritation in some individuals, and it is important to use it in appropriate concentrations to avoid adverse effects. Overall, Glycol Distearate is a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic industry that offers a range of benefits for formulators and consumers alike.

INCI Name and Common References

INCI Name: Glycol Distearate Common Terms: None Nicknames: None

Function

Glycol Distearate is a cosmetic ingredient that plays the role of an emulsifier and thickener in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize the emulsion by preventing the separation of oil and water-based ingredients. It also adds viscosity to the formulation, giving it a creamy and luxurious texture. Glycol Distearate is commonly used in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and lotions.

Science

Glycol Distearate is a type of ester that is commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products as an emulsifier and thickening agent. It is composed of two stearic acid molecules and one molecule of ethylene glycol. The stearic acid molecules are long-chain fatty acids that are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. The ethylene glycol molecule, on the other hand, is hydrophilic, meaning it attracts water. When Glycol Distearate is added to a product, it forms a stable emulsion by surrounding and encapsulating oil droplets, which are also hydrophobic. The hydrophilic ethylene glycol molecule faces outward, attracting water and creating a barrier between the oil and water phases. This prevents the oil droplets from coalescing and separating from the water phase, resulting in a smooth and homogeneous product. Additionally, the long-chain fatty acid molecules in Glycol Distearate contribute to its thickening properties. They align themselves in a crystalline structure, creating a network that traps water and other ingredients, making the product thicker and more viscous. Overall, Glycol Distearate works by utilizing its physical properties to create stable emulsions and thicken products, resulting in improved texture and performance.

Benefits

Unfortunately, there are no significant skincare benefits associated with Glycol Distearate. It is primarily used as a thickening agent in cosmetic formulations.

Negatives

Glycol Distearate is a common ingredient in personal care and cosmetic products, particularly in shampoos, conditioners, and body washes. While it is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be taken into consideration. One of the most common side effects of Glycol Distearate is skin irritation. This can manifest as redness, itching, or a rash, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin. If you experience any of these symptoms after using a product containing Glycol Distearate, it is recommended that you discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional. Another potential sensitivity to Glycol Distearate is eye irritation. If the product containing this ingredient comes into contact with your eyes, it can cause redness, itching, and watering. If this occurs, rinse your eyes thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if necessary. Glycol Distearate may also interact with other ingredients in personal care products. For example, it can reduce the effectiveness of certain preservatives, which can lead to bacterial growth and contamination. Additionally, it can interfere with the foaming properties of other ingredients, which can affect the overall performance of the product. Overall, while Glycol Distearate is generally considered safe for use in personal care products, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions. If you experience any adverse reactions after using a product containing this ingredient, it is recommended that you discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

Source

Glycol Distearate is a synthetic ingredient that is derived from stearic acid, which is a fatty acid found in animal and vegetable fats. It is commonly used in personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, and lotions as a thickening agent and emulsifier. The processing pathway of Glycol Distearate involves the reaction of stearic acid with ethylene oxide to form a monoester, which is then reacted with ethylene glycol to form the final product. The resulting Glycol Distearate is a white, waxy substance that is insoluble in water but can be easily dispersed in oil-based formulations.

Safety

Glycol Distearate has a safety rating score of 1-3 out of 10 on EWG Skin Deep, which indicates a low to moderate hazard. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products at concentrations up to 10%. However, it is important to note that some studies have shown potential skin irritation and allergic reactions in individuals with sensitive skin. Overall, Glycol Distearate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used in appropriate concentrations.

Sustainability

Glycol Distearate is a common ingredient used in personal care and cosmetic products such as shampoos, conditioners, and lotions. It is a white, waxy substance that is derived from stearic acid, which is found in animal and vegetable fats. In terms of its environmental impact, the production of Glycol Distearate can have negative effects on the environment. The process of manufacturing this ingredient involves the use of petrochemicals, which are non-renewable resources and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the production process can generate waste and pollution, which can harm local ecosystems and wildlife. When it comes to ethical sourcing practices, it is important to note that Glycol Distearate can be derived from both animal and vegetable sources. If derived from animal sources, it is important to ensure that the animals were raised and treated in a humane manner. If derived from vegetable sources, it is important to ensure that the crops were grown using sustainable farming practices and without the use of harmful pesticides or fertilizers. Overall, it is important for companies to consider the environmental impact and ethical sourcing practices of ingredients like Glycol Distearate when formulating their products. By choosing sustainable and ethical sources, companies can help to minimize their impact on the environment and promote responsible sourcing practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Glycol Distearate is a versatile ingredient that is commonly used in personal care and cosmetic products due to its ability to thicken and stabilize formulations. While it is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential negative effects associated with its use, such as skin irritation and environmental concerns. However, it can be sourced from both natural and synthetic sources, and its sustainability depends on the specific source and production methods used. Overall, Glycol Distearate remains a popular ingredient in the personal care industry due to its functional benefits and versatility.

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