Polyhydroxystearic Acid — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: POLYHYDROXYSTEARIC ACID
Key Facts
- CAS Number
- 58128-22-6
- Category
- emulsifier
- Risk Level
- safe
- Common Allergen
- No
Is Polyhydroxystearic Acid safe in cosmetics?
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is rated safe risk in cosmetic products. It is not classified as a common allergen and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types.
What is Polyhydroxystearic Acid?
Emulsifier used in sunscreens to disperse mineral UV filters.
Allergy & Safety Information
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is considered safe for cosmetic use. No significant safety concerns have been identified at typical use concentrations. As with any cosmetic ingredient, discontinue use if irritation occurs.
About Emulsifier Ingredients
Emulsifiers allow oil and water to mix stably in a formulation, creating creams and lotions. They work by surrounding oil droplets with molecules that are compatible with both water and oil. Most emulsifiers have low sensitisation rates, but some — particularly PEG-derived emulsifiers — can be problematic for barrier-compromised skin.
Relevance for Polyhydroxystearic Acid: Emulsifiers can disrupt the skin's own lipid barrier through a process called emulsification of skin lipids. For very sensitive or eczema-prone skin, emulsifier-free moisturisers (ointments, oils) are sometimes better tolerated than emulsion-based creams.
How to Identify Polyhydroxystearic Acid in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains Polyhydroxystearic Acid, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Not sure if your products contain Polyhydroxystearic Acid? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for Polyhydroxystearic Acid and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Polyhydroxystearic Acid safe for sensitive skin?
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is generally well-tolerated, even by sensitive skin types.
What products contain Polyhydroxystearic Acid?
Polyhydroxystearic Acid is found in various cosmetic and personal care products including skincare, haircare, and body care products.
What does Polyhydroxystearic Acid do in cosmetics?
Polyhydroxystearic Acid functions as a emulsifier in formulations.
Related Guides
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