Ingredient review

Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate

INCI: ALUMINUM STEAROYL GLUTAMATE

A safe, effective thickener and emulsifier that improves product texture without common irritation concerns.

beautyskincarethickener

In plain English

Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate is a semi-synthetic ingredient used to thicken and stabilize cosmetic products. It helps creams and lotions feel smooth and spread easily on the skin. Despite containing aluminum, it is considered safe because the aluminum is chemically bound and not easily absorbed through the skin.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate is a compound made from stearic acid (a fatty acid found in vegetable oils) and glutamic acid (an amino acid), combined with aluminum. It is produced through a controlled chemical process and is used primarily as a thickener and emulsifier in cosmetics.

How it works

In a cosmetic formula, Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate helps thicken the product by forming a gel-like network. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping oil and water blend together smoothly. This results in a creamy, stable texture that feels luxurious on the skin and helps other ingredients spread evenly.

Pros

Improves texture

Creates a smooth, creamy feel that makes products easier to apply and more pleasant to use.

Low irritation

Has a low irritation risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

Cons and cautions

Aluminum concerns

Some people prefer to avoid aluminum in any form, though the aluminum in this ingredient is tightly bound and not easily absorbed.

Semi-synthetic

Not a natural ingredient, which may be a drawback for those seeking fully natural or organic products.

Best for

  • Anyone looking for well-textured creams or lotions
  • People with normal to dry skin who want a rich but non-greasy feel

Use caution if

  • Those specifically avoiding all aluminum compounds in skincare

Usage tips

Use in formulations that require a stable, thick emulsion
Combine with other emulsifiers for best results in complex formulas

Safety summary

Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. The aluminum is chemically bound and not readily absorbed through the skin, so typical exposure is very low. Regulatory bodies have approved its use, and irritation or allergy is rare.

Research notes

Research supports its safety and efficacy as a thickener and emulsifier. The CIR panel reviewed data and concluded it is safe in current usage concentrations. No significant health risks have been identified in cosmetic applications.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other countries. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe as used.
Common uses
Creams, Lotions, Foundations, Sunscreens
Environmental note
Produced through chemical synthesis; not known to be biodegradable, but used in low concentrations.

Good to know

  • Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate is often used in mineral sunscreens to improve texture and stability.
  • It is approved for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies including the FDA and EU CosIng.

Common questions

What is Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate in beauty products?

Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate is a semi-synthetic ingredient used to thicken and stabilize cosmetic products. It helps creams and lotions feel smooth and spread easily on the skin. Despite containing aluminum, it is considered safe because the aluminum is chemically bound and not easily absorbed through the skin.

What does Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate do in a beauty product?

In a cosmetic formula, Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate helps thicken the product by forming a gel-like network. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping oil and water blend together smoothly. This results in a creamy, stable texture that feels luxurious on the skin and helps other ingredients spread evenly.

Is Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate safe for most people?

Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate is considered safe for use in cosmetics. The aluminum is chemically bound and not readily absorbed through the skin, so typical exposure is very low. Regulatory bodies have approved its use, and irritation or allergy is rare.

Who should be careful with Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate?

Those specifically avoiding all aluminum compounds in skincare

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenEU CosIng DatabaseOpen

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.