Glyceryl Stearate SE
Self-emulsifying emulsifier and texture builder for oil-in-water creams and lotions. Creates a creamy body with good slip and stable structure.
DESCRIPTION
Glyceryl Stearate SE is a self-emulsifying version of glyceryl stearate designed to create oil-in-water emulsions.
It helps combine oil and water phases, builds viscosity, and gives creams and lotions a smooth, creamy texture.
It is often used as a primary emulsifier in classic lotion systems or as a co-emulsifier alongside other emulsifiers to improve stability and sensory.
Because it contains an emulsifying “soap” component, it performs best when the formula is designed with a compatible pH and electrolyte level.
FEATURES
- Self-emulsifying – helps form oil-in-water emulsions with simpler processing.
- Texture builder – adds creamy body and improves spread.
- Stability support – strengthens emulsion structure when used correctly.
- Elegant feel – improves slip and reduces drag in lotions and creams.
BEST FOR
- Lotions
- Creams
- Body moisturisers
- Hand creams
- Emulsion cleansers
- Conditioning creams
Formulator tip: Glyceryl Stearate SE builds texture fast. Use it when you want a classic creamy lotion body without needing a complex emulsifier blend.
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| INCI | Glyceryl Stearate (and) Sodium Stearate (typical) |
|---|---|
| Type | Self-emulsifying emulsifier (O/W) + texture builder |
| Form | White to off-white flakes or pellets |
| Solubility | Oil phase melt-in (forms an emulsion on processing) |
| Use Rate | 2–8% typical. 3–5% is common for lotions. 4–7% is common for richer creams, depending on oil phase. |
| ASM (Active Matter) | N/A (emulsifier, not dosed like cleansing surfactants) |
| CMC | N/A (emulsifier, not used as a primary cleansing surfactant) |
| Best Phase | Oil phase (heat to melt) |
| pH Compatibility | We recommend finished product pH 5.0–7.0 for best stability and skin comfort. |
| Temperature Tolerance | We recommend heating to 70–75°C to fully melt, then emulsifying with a similarly heated water phase. |
| Pro Tip |
Pair with cetyl or cetearyl alcohol (0.5–3%) to improve structure and reduce separation risk, especially in higher oil phase formulas. Avoid very low pH systems because the soap component can destabilise or change texture. Let the batch rest for 24 hours before final viscosity decisions because the structure continues to set as it cools. |
| Appearance | White to off-white waxy flakes/pellets |
| Stability Notes | Texture can shift with electrolytes and strong acids. Always test with your full active system and final packaging. |
| Storage | Keep sealed, cool and dry. Protect from heat and humidity. |
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