INCI · emollient · CIR review pending · used in 9 products
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Polyhydroxystearic Acid (CAS 27924-99-8 / 58128-22-6) is a homopolymer of 12-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid used primarily as a dispersant or dispersing agent in cosmetic formulations. It is commonly found in inorganic (titanium dioxide/zinc oxide-based) sunscreens and make-up products to help distribute pigments evenly on the skin. Its official CosIng function is listed as emulsifying.
Evidence level
weakEWG score
—Comedogenic
—Category
emollient● Benefits
Helps distribute inorganic pigments and sunscreen filters evenly across the skin. It is also claimed to increase UV absorption efficiency in sunscreen formulas and to reduce the white cast commonly associated with inorganic sunscreens.
emulsifyingpigment-dispersinguv-absorption-enhancementwhite-cast-reduction
● Cautions
