Glycol Distearate

A diester that moisturizes by preventing water from evaporating from the skin.
Moisturizing
Other functions
Origin
Glycol Distearate

Overview

Glycol distearate is a diester that features two long and straight carbon chains. This oily ingredient acts as a moisturizing agent – specifically, an occlusive.

An occlusive moisturizer is one that locks moisture into the skin by preventing water from evaporating. Glycol distearate also works as an emulsifier, where it produces water-in-oil emulsions. Additionally, it can support the formation of oil-in-water emulsions, in which it acts as a stabilizer and a viscosity controlling agent.

This ingredient is also well-known for its ability to opacify, as it produces a visually appealing pearly color when added to skincare products.