What is stearic acid? Stearic acid is a long chain saturated fatty acid. Saturated fatty acids are obtained from a variety of animal fats and vegetable fats. Stearic acid occurs naturally in some oils and butters like cocoa butter and shea butter. Our stearic acid is derived from vegetable fats. Stearic acid comes in the form of small white waxy pellets, it has a mild odour and is oil soluble. What is stearic acid used for? Stearic acid is used in personal care products to harden or thicken a formulation. It can also be used in cosmetic recipes to improve the texture of formulations. Stearic acid also works as a surfactant and softening agent, it provides a smoothing and moisturising effect on the skin. Stearic acid is often used in lotions, salves, balms, candles, body butters, soaps and moisturisers. It helps the finished product to have a smooth buttery feeling upon application. Stearic acid is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin and dry skin. It can also aid in the reduction of skin irritation and damage. Claims suggest that stearic acid may have some anti inflammatory properties, but there is not enough evidence to support this. Candle makers use stearic acid as a source of stearin for candle making. It helps to harden and stabilise the wax which creates a durable candle. Additionally, stearic acid improves the burning quality of candles and aids fragrance retention.
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