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4 ingredients

Emollient, Emulsifier

Explore all 4 ingredients in the Emollient, Emulsifier category. Learn about their benefits and find products that contain them.

Emollient, Emulsifier

Glyceryl Stearate

Glyceryl stearate is the monoester of glycerin and stearic acid — essentially one glycerin molecule bonded to a stearic acid fatty acid chain. It occurs naturally in the body and is also derived from vegetable oils via a green, soap-like manufacturing process. In formulations it functions as both an emulsifier (helping oil and water phases blend stably) and a skin-conditioning emollient that leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.

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Emollient, Emulsifier

Glyceryl Behenate

Glyceryl behenate is the monoester of glycerol and behenic acid (a long-chain C22 fatty acid), derived from vegetable sources such as rapeseed oil. It functions as an emollient that softens skin and as an emulsifier and gelling agent that helps stabilise waterless formulas and pressed makeup products. It is Ecocert-certified and widely used in clean beauty formulations.

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Emollient, Emulsifier

Lecithin

Lecithin is a naturally occurring phospholipid complex found in all cell membranes, most commonly sourced from soybeans or egg yolks for cosmetic use. It functions as a multifunctional ingredient — acting as a softening emollient, a hydration booster that binds water to the skin, an emulsifier that stabilises oil-water formulations, and a liposome-forming agent that can enhance delivery of active ingredients deeper into the skin.

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Emollient, Emulsifier

Tri(Polyglyceryl-3/Lauryl) Hydrogenated Trilinoleate

Tri(Polyglyceryl-3/Lauryl) Hydrogenated Trilinoleate is a complex polyglyceryl ester derived from hydrogenated trilinolein and lauryl polyglycerol. It functions as an emollient and water-in-oil emulsifier, providing rich moisturisation and a smooth skin feel. It is used in creams, balms, and lipstick formulations.

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