murphyGlycol Distearate
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
Clean
OriginTypically derived from coconut, palm kernel, or soybean oils as the natural starting material. Produced through esterification of glycerin with stearic acid, followed by hydrogenation to create the final compound.
Ethylene glycol distearate is a fatty acid ester.
Formula
C38H74O4
Mol. Weight
595.00
CAS #
627-83-8
Form
Wax
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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
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.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Eye Irritant
2 studies / 2 not irritating (CIR 237 and 735)
Not a Sensitizer
6 studies / 6 not sensitizing (CIR 237 and 735)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
8 studies / 4 irritating / 1 mixed / 3 not irritating / reactions slight to severe (CIR 237 and 735)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.2–13.1%
Rinse-off0.05–10%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2016 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR