Sodium Hydroxystearate
AKA “Octadecanoic acid, monosodium salt, 12-Hydroxystearic acid, sodium salt, Monosodium 12-hydroxystearate, UNII-41MQN4869V, sodium salt (1:1)”
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
Sodium hydroxystearate
AKA: Octadecanoic acid, Monosodium salt, 12-Hydroxystearic acid, Sodium salt, Monosodium 12-hydroxystearate, UNII-41MQN4869V, Sodium salt (1:1)
Synthetic · Cleansing | Surfactant - Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
A naturally derived cleanser that gently removes dirt and oil while maintaining skin's natural balance. Derived from plant-based sources.
Formula
C18H35NaO3
Mol. Weight
322.50
CAS #
13329-67-4
Form
Liquid
Synthetic
Botanical. Derived from plant-based oils such as coconut, palm kernel, or soybean oils through hydrogenation. Produced by saponification of hydroxystearic acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate.
Function
Cleansing | Surfactant - Cleansing
Benefits
Cleansing
Surfactant Cleansing
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Fights Acne
Removes dirt and impurities
Lifts away dirt and oil
Traditional Use
Developed in the mid-20th century as a synthetic emulsifier and thickening agent derived from stearic acid (a naturally occurring fatty acid). Created to improve stability and texture in cosmetic formulations without traditional historical use.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Yes
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR