Glycol Distearate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Ethylene glycol distearate, Ethylene distearate, OCTADECANOIC ACID, 1, 2-ETHANEDIYL ESTER, Genapol PMs, Secoster DMS, Alkamuls EGDS, Kemester EGDS, Lexemul EGDS, McAlester EGDS
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Clean
Ethylene glycol distearate is a fatty acid ester.
Formula
C38H74O4
Mol. Weight
595.00
CAS #
627-83-8
Form
Wax
Functions
Opacifying
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.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester developed for cosmetics in the 1950s-1960s. Functions as a pearlescent agent and opacifier in cleansers and shampoos, often replacing natural wax ingredients for consistency and appearance.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR