Glyceryl Isostearates
AKA “Glyceryl Isostearates
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Glyceryl isostearates
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
Mixture of branched chain C18-alkanoic acids, monoesters with 1,2,3-propanetriol Science: Origin: Botanic/Natural | Functions: Skin Conditioning, Skin Conditioning - Emollient, Surfactant - Cleansing, Surfactant - Emulsifying Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
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.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Synthetic esters made from glycerin and branched isostearic acids. Created mid-20th century as versatile emollients and emulsifiers offering improved sensory properties over straight-chain esters.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR