Ingredient review
Acetylated Sucrose Distearate
INCI: Acetylated Sucrose Distearate
A gentle, sugar-derived emollient that helps products feel silky and spread smoothly without clogging pores.
In plain English
Acetylated Sucrose Distearate is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by combining sugar (sucrose) with fatty acids from plant oils, then modifying it with acetyl groups. In skincare, it acts as an emollient—meaning it softens and smooths the skin—and as an emulsifier, helping water and oil mix together in creams and lotions. It gives products a light, non-greasy feel and is considered very gentle, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Acetylated Sucrose Distearate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Acetylated Sucrose Distearate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A semi-synthetic ester of sucrose (table sugar) and stearic acid (a fatty acid from plant sources), further acetylated to improve its stability and texture. It appears as a waxy solid and is used to create smooth, stable emulsions.
How it works
As an emollient, it fills in the gaps between skin cells, making the skin feel softer and smoother. As an emulsifier, it helps blend oil and water phases in a formula, preventing separation and ensuring a uniform, creamy texture. Its acetyl groups also provide a light, silky after-feel on the skin.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike heavier oils or butters, Acetylated Sucrose Distearate leaves a silky, non-greasy finish, making it ideal for daytime moisturizers and makeup.
Gentle on skin
With low irritation and comedogenic ratings, it is well-tolerated even by sensitive and acne-prone skin types, reducing the risk of breakouts or redness.
Cons and cautions
Semi-synthetic origin
While derived from natural sugar and fatty acids, the acetylation process makes it semi-synthetic, which may not align with a fully natural skincare routine.
Limited research depth
Although safety data supports its use, there are fewer long-term studies compared to more traditional emollients like glycerin or shea butter.
Best for
- People with dry or normal skin looking for a lightweight moisturizer
- Those with sensitive or acne-prone skin who need a non-comedogenic emollient
Use caution if
- Individuals who prefer exclusively natural or organic ingredients may want to avoid semi-synthetic options
Usage tips
Safety summary
Acetylated Sucrose Distearate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is well-tolerated by most skin types. Regulatory bodies and safety panels have approved its use at typical concentrations.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that Acetylated Sucrose Distearate is safe for use in cosmetics. Studies indicate it is non-irritating and non-sensitizing. However, independent clinical studies on its efficacy are limited.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission. It is listed in the CosIng database and has been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel, which found it safe for use in concentrations up to 10%.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Creams, Lotions, Makeup, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Derived from sugar and plant-based fatty acids, it is biodegradable and considered more environmentally friendly than many petroleum-derived emollients.
Good to know
- Acetylated Sucrose Distearate is often used in combination with other emulsifiers to create stable, elegant textures.
- It is considered biodegradable and is derived from renewable resources, making it a more sustainable choice compared to some petroleum-based emollients.
Common questions
What is Acetylated Sucrose Distearate in beauty products?
Acetylated Sucrose Distearate is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by combining sugar (sucrose) with fatty acids from plant oils, then modifying it with acetyl groups. In skincare, it acts as an emollient—meaning it softens and smooths the skin—and as an emulsifier, helping water and oil mix together in creams and lotions. It gives products a light, non-greasy feel and is considered very gentle, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
What does Acetylated Sucrose Distearate do in a beauty product?
As an emollient, it fills in the gaps between skin cells, making the skin feel softer and smoother. As an emulsifier, it helps blend oil and water phases in a formula, preventing separation and ensuring a uniform, creamy texture. Its acetyl groups also provide a light, silky after-feel on the skin.
Is Acetylated Sucrose Distearate safe for most people?
Acetylated Sucrose Distearate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is well-tolerated by most skin types. Regulatory bodies and safety panels have approved its use at typical concentrations.
Who should be careful with Acetylated Sucrose Distearate?
Individuals who prefer exclusively natural or organic ingredients may want to avoid semi-synthetic options
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.