Tridecyl Stearate

Good

Emollient

Tridecyl Stearate at a glance

  • The ester obtained from the reaction of tridecyl alcohol combined with stearic acid
  • Works as a texture-enhancer/thickening agent and skin-softening emollient
  • Touted for its quick absorption and velvety after feel
  • Described as a clear oily liquid in raw material form

Tridecyl Stearate description

Tridecyl stearate is the ester obtained from the reaction of tridecyl alcohol combined with stearic acid. It’s used in cosmetics as a texture-enhancer/thickening agent and emollient and may be animal-derived or synthetic (Paula’s Choice uses the latter). In raw material form, tridecyl stearate is described as a clear oily liquid that may have a light-yellow hue. Suppliers of this ingredient tout its quick absorbance and velvety after feel. Tridecyl stearate has been deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Their 2015 report surveyed 88 products containing up to 18% (although typical usage levels usage are in the 1-8% range).

Tridecyl Stearate references

  • UPIChem, Accessed November 2021, ePublication
  • Vantage, Accessed November 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2015, pages 5S-69S

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.