Glyceryl Stearate (CAS 31566-31-1) — Citrus Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Glyceryl Stearate
CAS 31566-31-1
What Is Glyceryl Stearate?
Glyceryl stearate is a gentle emulsifier found in skincare products like lotions and creams. It helps blend water and oil-based ingredients smoothly. This ingredient is valued for its skin-conditioning properties, making products feel silky without leaving a greasy residue. It’s commonly used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Glyceryl Stearate Smell Like?
Glyceryl stearate is odorless, making it ideal for fragrance-free formulations where scent neutrality is required. Its lack of olfactory character allows it to serve as a blank canvas in perfumery, primarily functioning as a base for other aromatic compounds without contributing its own scent profile.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Glyceryl stearate is a monoester formed from glycerol and stearic acid. It belongs to the class of fatty acid esters and is synthesized through esterification reactions. The molecule features a hydrophilic glycerol head and a hydrophobic stearic acid tail, giving it amphiphilic properties. This structure enables its use as an emulsifier in various formulations.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Molecular Weight | 358.6 g/mol |
|---|---|
| XLogP | 7.4 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in hot oils, organic solvents |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetics | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Primary emulsifier |
| Pharmaceuticals | 2-8% | Up to 15% | Tablet lubricant |
| Food | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Emulsifier and stabilizer |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use as a neutral base for fragrance oils in anhydrous formulations.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Similar emulsifying properties with slightly different solubility profile.
Shorter chain length provides different texture and emulsification properties.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. IFRA, REACH, EU Cosmetics Regulation standards update periodically. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating. Not legal or regulatory advice.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA
RIFM Assessment
Considered safe for use in cosmetics by RIFM.
Sustainability
Glyceryl stearate is typically synthesized from renewable sources like vegetable oils. Its production has minimal environmental impact, and it is biodegradable. Synthetic production ensures consistent quality and reduces reliance on animal-derived ingredients.
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References
- PubChem Compound Summary for Glyceryl Stearate CID 24699
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
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