murphyLithium Stearate
AKA: 4485-12-5, Lithium octadecanoate, CCRIS 8273, AI3-19767
Plant-Derived
Clean
OriginDerived from lithium salts, a naturally occurring alkali metal found in mineral deposits and brines worldwide. Synthesized by combining lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide with stearic acid through esterification reactions.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the following ingredients are safe in the present practices of use andconcentration described in the safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing, which may be basedon a QRA...Lithium Stearate...
Formula
C18H35LiO2
Mol. Weight
290.40
CAS #
4485-12-5
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
Functions
Anticaking
Binding
Opacifying
Viscosity Controlling
Prevents Clumping
Holds Formula Together
Adds Opacity
Controls Viscosity
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Holds ingredients together
Creates creamy opacity
Controls product thickness
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.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Skin Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 777)
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 777)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
2 studies / 1 irritating / 1 not irritating / reactions mild to moderate (CIR 777)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.1–4%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2016 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR