What Is Stearyl erucamide?

Learn about the opacifying and viscosity-controlling characteristics of Stearyl erucamide and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Stearyl erucamide? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Stearyl erucamide?

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Stearyl erucamide is a substance that is commonly used in cosmetics to help control the thickness of the product and make it less transparent. It comes in the form of dry powder, pellets or large crystals and is also known by its scientific name (z)-n-octadecyldocos-13-enamide.

What is the purpose of Stearyl erucamide in personal care products? It is used for its opacifying and viscosity-controlling characteristics. Stearyl erucamide reduce cosmetic transparency and adjusts the thickness of a product.

What Are Opacifying Ingredients?

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Stearyl erucamide has opacifying characteristics.

Opacifying ingredients are commonly used in cosmetic products to reduce transparency or translucency. These ingredients create a white or opaque appearance in the product, which helps hide imperfections and blemishes on the skin. Some opacifying ingredients also have the added benefit of providing a matte finish, which can be desirable for those with oily or combination skin.

Opacifying ingredients can be found in various cosmetic products, including foundations, powders, and concealers. These ingredients can be synthetic or naturally derived, including titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and kaolin clay.

What Are Viscosity-Controlling Ingredients?

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Stearyl erucamide has viscosity-controlling characteristics.

Viscosity-controlling ingredients increase or decrease the thickness of a product. These ingredients are essential in creating the desired texture and consistency for cosmetic products such as lotions, creams, and serums.

Increasing the viscosity of a cosmetic product can provide a thicker and more substantial texture, making it easier to apply and providing better coverage. On the other hand, decreasing the viscosity can create a lighter, more fluid consistency, allowing for quicker absorption into the skin.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.