What Is 1,2-Octadecanediol?

Learn about the emulsion stabilizing, skin conditioning, skin conditioning emollient, and viscosity-controlling characteristics of 1,2-Octadecanediol and its usage in personal care products.

What Is 1,2-Octadecanediol? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is 1,2-Octadecanediol?

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1,2-Octadecanediol, also known as octadecane-1,2-diol or stearyl glycol, is a substance commonly used in cosmetics for its different properties. It helps to stabilize the texture of products by keeping the ingredients from separating and settling. Additionally, it can improve the feel and appearance of skin by acting as a moisturizer (emollient) and controlling its thickness (viscosity).

What is the purpose of 1,2-Octadecanediol in personal care products? It is used for its emulsion stabilizing, skin conditioning, skin conditioning emollient, and viscosity-controlling characteristics. 1,2-Octadecanediol helps mix ingredients and improve shelf life, moisturizes and strengthens skin, hydrates skin to prevent dryness, and adjusts the thickness of a product.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: 1,2-Octadecanediol and Stearyl Glycol.

What Are Emulsion Stabilizing Ingredients?

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1,2-Octadecanediol has emulsion stabilizing characteristics.

Emulsion stabilizing ingredients help to mix two or more ingredients that generally don't mix well, such as oil and water, to create a stable mixture. They work by coating the oil droplets in the mixture, preventing them from sticking together and separating over time.

Emulsion stabilizing ingredients make the product last longer and more effectively and ensure it doesn't look strange or separate on the shelf. By helping emulsify, these ingredients help make the product more effective and stable over time.

What Are Skin Conditioning Ingredients?

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1,2-Octadecanediol has skin conditioning characteristics.

Skin conditioning ingredients improve the texture, feel, and overall appearance of the skin, helping to avoid harmful effects from external factors. Skin conditioning ingredients moisturize the skin and strengthen its natural barrier function to help protect it from damage caused by harsh weather and sunlight. Some skin conditioning ingredients are anti-inflammatory and can help reduce redness and irritated skin.

What Are Skin Conditioning Emollient Ingredients?

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1,2-Octadecanediol has skin conditioning emollient characteristics.

Skin conditioning emollients help improve the skin's texture and appearance while providing it with the necessary hydration to prevent dryness and flakiness. Emollients are lubricants that create a barrier on the skin's surface to trap moisture, which helps prevent dryness and dehydration.

Skin conditioning emollients are commonly found in cosmetics such as moisturizers and lotions, which significantly help maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin. Emollients are typically made from natural oils, such as coconut or jojoba, and can also contain humectants that draw moisture to the skin's surface.

What Are Viscosity-Controlling Ingredients?

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1,2-Octadecanediol 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.