murphyIsopropyl Stearate
AKA: 112-10-7, Octadecanoic acid, 1-methylethyl ester, Wickenol 127, 1-Methylethyl octadecanoate, Stearic acid, Isopropyl ester, ISOPROPYL STEARATE [II]
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Clean
OriginDerived from stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid commonly sourced from plant oils like palm or soybean. Synthesized through esterification of stearic acid with isopropyl alcohol using acid catalysts.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the alkyl esters, listed subsequently, are safe in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating.
Formula
C21H42O2
Mol. Weight
326.60
CAS #
112-10-7
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Binding
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.
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 a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 189)
Not an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 189)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
4 studies / 3 irritating / 1 mixed / reactions slight to moderate (CIR 189 and 623)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on1–16%
Rinse-off0.9–9%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2012 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR