What Is Propylene glycol distearate?

Learn about the opacifying, pearlescent, skin conditioning emollient, and viscosity-controlling characteristics of Propylene glycol distearate and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Propylene glycol distearate? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Propylene glycol distearate?

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Propylene glycol distearate is a substance commonly used in cosmetics that has several functions. It can make products appear opaque and give them a pearly shine. It also helps to moisturize and soften the skin, acting as an emollient. Additionally, it can control the thickness of the product by adjusting its viscosity. Another name for propylene glycol distearate is 2-octadecanoyloxypropyl octadecanoate.

What is the purpose of Propylene glycol distearate in personal care products? It is used for its opacifying, pearlescent, skin conditioning emollient, and viscosity-controlling characteristics. Propylene glycol distearate reduce cosmetic transparency, enhances appearance, hydrates skin to prevent dryness, and adjusts the thickness of a product.

What Are Opacifying Ingredients?

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Propylene glycol distearate 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 Pearlescent Ingredients?

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Propylene glycol distearate has pearlescent characteristics.

Pearlescent ingredients are commonly used in cosmetic products to give them a shimmery or pearly effect. These ingredients reflect light in a specific way that gives the product a unique appearance. This effect is similar to the iridescence seen in pearls, where the name "pearlescent" comes from.

The use of pearlescent ingredients in cosmetics can enhance the overall appearance of a product and make it more visually appealing. These ingredients can be found in various cosmetics, including lipsticks, eyeshadows, and highlighters. They are typically made from mica, titanium dioxide, or synthetic fluorphlogopite. When applied to the skin, pearlescent ingredients can create a subtle shimmer effect that adds depth and dimension to the product.

Pearlescent ingredients, such as mica-based pigments, are commonly used in food products to create an attractive, shimmering effect. They are often added to confectionery, baked goods, and dairy products to enhance their visual appeal and make them look more appetizing.

What Are Skin Conditioning Emollient Ingredients?

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Propylene glycol distearate 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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Propylene glycol distearate 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.