Glyceryl Stearate/Malate

Glyceryl Stearate/Malate 1
AKA: Glyceryl Mixed Esters
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Cleanser
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
Ester of glycerin esterified with a blend of stearic and malic acids
Form
Liquid
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester combining glycerin, stearic acid, and malic acid developed in the 20th century. Used in cosmetics as a thickening and skin-conditioning ingredient.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR