Hydroxystearic
AKA: 12-Hydroxystearic acid, 12-HYDROXYOCTADECANOIC ACID, 106-14-9, DL-12-Hydroxystearic acid, Cerit Fac 3, Hydrofol acid 200, Ceroxin GL, Barolub FTO, Stearic acid, Loxiol G 21
Plant-Derived
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Clean
12-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid is a hydroxy fatty acid that is stearic acid bearing a hydroxy substituent at position 12. It has a role as a plant metabolite and a bacterial xenobiotic metabolite. It is a hydroxyoctadecanoic acid and a secondary alcohol. It is a conjugate acid of a 12-hydroxyoctadecanoate.
Solubility Soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform; insoluble in water
Formula
C18H36O3
Mol. Weight
300.50
CAS #
106-14-9
Form
Powder
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
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.
Removes Impurities
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Anti-Aging Benefits
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
This refers to hydroxylated stearic acid derivatives, developed in the 20th century as synthetic emollients and thickening agents. Created to improve texture and stability in cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory0 listings
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR