ALUMINUM STEARATE (Aluminium stearate) – function in cosmetics

An aluminium salt of stearic acid used as a thickener and anti-caking agent, listed in Annex IV.

What it is

Aluminum stearate is the aluminium salt of stearic acid. CosIng lists it as an anti-caking agent, colorant, emulsion stabiliser and viscosity-controlling agent. In the EU it is listed in Annex IV (colorants) under the entry for aluminium, zinc, magnesium and calcium stearates.

Where it is used

Found in powders, eye shadows, lipsticks and other makeup.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

See the EU regulation section for the applicable limits and conditions. The label does not show whether it is used as a colorant or for another purpose.

Functions

Anticaking

Preventing agglomeration of particulate solids into lumps or hard masses (cohesive cake), thus allowing free flow of particles.

Colorant

Exclusively or mainly intended to colour the cosmetic product, the body as a whole or certain parts thereof, by absorption or reflection of visible light; (precursors of oxidative hair colorants shall be deemed colorants). All authorised colorants are substances in the positive list of Annex IV to the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.

Emulsion stabilising

Helping the process of emulsification and improving emulsion stability and shelf-life.

Viscosity controlling

Increasing or decreasing the viscosity (thickness) of cosmetics.

ALUMINUM STEARATE

What it is

Where it is used

Limits of interpretation

Functions

EU regulation

Products with this ingredient (8)