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Glyceryl Stearate

Well toleratedEmulsifieremulsifieremollientskin conditioning

No meaningful concern for most people; irritation is possible but rare.

Also written as: Glycerol monostearate · GMS

What it is

Glyceryl stearate is the ester of glycerin and stearic acid, both of which occur naturally in vegetable oils and in skin's own lipids. It is one of the most widely used emulsifiers in cosmetics, holding the oil and water phases of a cream together while adding a soft, non-greasy feel.

How it shows up on a label

Usually printed in the first half of an ingredient list, above the point where order stops indicating quantity. The 'Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate' pairing is uncommon on mask packs; far more often the plain ester is declared on its own. Glyceryl Stearate Citrate is a different ingredient with its own entry, not this one printed longer.

What it does well

  • Holds creams and lotions together and adds emollience

    It is a self-emulsifying, well-tolerated ester used across the industry, often paired with PEG-100 stearate to build a stable base.

    Strong evidence

Where the EU stands

No specific restriction

No EU restriction on use or concentration in cosmetics.

Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 - no annex entry · source ↗

Masks that contain Glyceryl Stearate