Phytosteryl Hydroxystearate
AKA “Plant sterol hydroxystearate
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
Phytosteryl hydroxystearate
AKA: Plant sterol hydroxystearate
Synthetic · Skin Conditioning | Emollient | Moisturising · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
Plant phytosterols 12-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid esters Science: Origin: Botanic/Natural | Functions: Skin Conditioning Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Form
Liquid
Synthetic
Botanical. Derived from plant phytosterols and 12-hydroxyoctadecanoic acid (a saturated fatty acid), typically sourced from vegetable oils. Synthesized through esterification, chemically bonding phytosterols with hydroxystearic acid under controlled conditions.
Function
Skin Conditioning | Emollient | Moisturising
Benefits
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester combining phytosterols with hydroxylated stearic acid. Created in modern cosmetics laboratories as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
Dryness
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Yes
EWG Score4
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval, all-shades-safe, Not a Sensitizer
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR