Sucrose Polystearate ●
TL;DR. This ingredient functions mainly as a nonionic emulsifier and co-emulsifier, helping oil and water phases form stable creams, lotions, and balms. It can also add a soft, cushiony skin feel and improve dispersion of waxes and oils.
What does Sucrose Polystearate do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient functions mainly as a nonionic emulsifier and co-emulsifier, helping oil and water phases form stable creams, lotions, and balms. It can also add a soft, cushiony skin feel and improve dispersion of waxes and oils.
Is Sucrose Polystearate clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, this ingredient is generally well tolerated, low in sensitization concerns, and not a common restricted-list issue. The main review point is sourcing transparency for the fatty acid portion, especially if palm-derived.
Is Sucrose Polystearate sustainable?
This material is commonly made from plant-derived carbohydrate and vegetable fatty acids, with palm, rapeseed, or other oil crops as possible sources. It is expected to be readily biodegradable, while the sustainability profile depends on certified and traceable agricultural feedstocks.
Is Sucrose Polystearate COSMOS-approved?
It is generally permitted in COSMOS natural and organic formulations when made with compliant feedstocks and approved processing. It fits Green Chemistry reasonably well because it can use renewable inputs, has low persistence concerns, and replaces more petrochemical-leaning emulsifier systems.
How does Sucrose Polystearate work chemically?
The molecule is a polyhydroxylated carbohydrate core esterified with multiple C18 fatty acid chains, giving it a nonionic, lipophilic emulsifying profile. Typical use is often around 1 to 5% as an emulsifier or texture modifier, with best stability near mildly acidic to neutral pH and reduced stability under strongly acidic or alkaline hydrolytic conditions.
Last updated 2026-05-13