Dextrin Stearate
AKA “Dextrin Stearate”
Surfactant
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Ingredient Facts
Dextrin stearate
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
Octadecanoic acid, dextrin ester
CAS #
37307-33-8
See origin →
Functions
Anticaking
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Prevents Clumping
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Reduces Inflammation
Fights Bacteria
Wound Healing
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
Synthetic ester combining dextrin with stearic acid, developed in mid-20th century cosmetic chemistry. Used as a thickening and conditioning agent to improve product consistency and skin feel.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Dermal absorption: 2%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 680).
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR