Isostearyl Isostearate

Good

Emollient

Isostearyl Isostearate at a glance

  • Liquid emollient ester that helps prevent moisture loss
  • Improves the texture of makeup products such as lipstick
  • Made from a blend of a fatty acid and a fatty alcohol
  • Sometimes used to replace mineral oil

Isostearyl Isostearate description

Isostearyl isostearate is a vegetable-derived or synthetic liquid emollient ester that helps prevent moisture loss, softens skin, improves an impaired barrier, and can enhance the texture of products such as lipstick. This emollient is also used as a binding agent to keep the dry ingredients in powder-based products together. Isostearyl isostearate is stable and, unlike natural oils, not prone to rancidity. It has a more cosmetically elegant texture than mineral oil, so is sometimes used to replace this ingredient. Usage levels of isostearyl isostearate in skin care are typically between 2–10% depending on formulary needs and other emollients present. It is considered safe and non-irritating as used in cosmetics.

Isostearyl Isostearate references

  • International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2015, pages 5S–69S
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2012, pages 502–512
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2010, pages 304–312

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.