AKA: Isostearic acid, Chimyl ester, Isooctadecanoic acid, 3-hexadecyloxy-2-hydroxypropyl ester, CHIMYL ISOSTEARATE [INCI], ISOSTEARIC ACID
WHAT IS IT? Plant-Derived
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
Origin Derived from isostearic acid and fatty alcohols, typically sourced from plant oils like coconut or palm. Synthesized through esterification of isostearic acid with glycerol and hexadecyl alcohol.
Isostearic acid, 3-hexadecyloxy-2-hydroxypropyl ester
IS IT FOR ME? Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
WHAT’S IT DO? Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
CAN I TRUST THIS? The paper trail
🔬 Peer-reviewed none on file
🛡️ Safety-assessed 1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
IS IT CLEAN? Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2015
Regulatory Status
JAPAN ⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR
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