Ingredient review
C40-60 Alkyl Stearate
INCI: C40-60 Alkyl Stearate
A gentle, non-greasy wax ester that gives products a smooth, silky feel without clogging pores.
In plain English
C40-60 Alkyl Stearate is a synthetic wax made from long-chain fatty alcohols and stearic acid. It helps thicken and stabilize products like lipsticks and creams, giving them a smooth, non-sticky texture. Because it sits on the skin's surface without penetrating deeply, it's unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation, making it a safe choice for most skin types.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
C40-60 Alkyl Stearate 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 C40-60 Alkyl Stearate.
- 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 synthetic ester created by combining a blend of long-chain fatty alcohols (C40-60) with stearic acid, resulting in a waxy solid that melts at skin temperature.
How it works
It acts as a thickening agent and emollient, forming a protective film on the skin that reduces water loss and provides a silky, cushiony feel. In stick products, it helps maintain shape and glide.
Pros
Silky, non-greasy feel
Creates a smooth, cushiony texture in creams and sticks without leaving a sticky or oily residue.
Low irritation and comedogenic risk
Sits on the skin's surface and does not penetrate pores easily, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Derived from petrochemical sources, which may not align with natural or clean beauty preferences.
Potential heaviness at high levels
If used in very high concentrations, it can make products feel thick or waxy on the skin.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a non-greasy emollient in lip or face products
- People with oily or acne-prone skin who want texture without breakouts
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients
- Individuals with known sensitivity to wax esters (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
C40-60 Alkyl Stearate is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic profile, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have found alkyl stearates to be safe as used in cosmetics. No peer-reviewed studies specifically on C40-60 Alkyl Stearate were identified, but it is structurally similar to other well-studied wax esters.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% depending on desired thickness and feel
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Lip balms, Stick foundations, Creams, Lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ingredient, it is not biodegradable in the same way as plant waxes, but it is generally considered safe for aquatic life at typical use levels.
Good to know
- Often used in combination with other waxes to fine-tune melting point and hardness.
- It is not water-soluble, so it works best in oil-based or emulsion formulas.
Common questions
What is C40-60 Alkyl Stearate in beauty products?
C40-60 Alkyl Stearate is a synthetic wax made from long-chain fatty alcohols and stearic acid. It helps thicken and stabilize products like lipsticks and creams, giving them a smooth, non-sticky texture. Because it sits on the skin's surface without penetrating deeply, it's unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation, making it a safe choice for most skin types.
What does C40-60 Alkyl Stearate do in a beauty product?
It acts as a thickening agent and emollient, forming a protective film on the skin that reduces water loss and provides a silky, cushiony feel. In stick products, it helps maintain shape and glide.
Is C40-60 Alkyl Stearate safe for most people?
C40-60 Alkyl Stearate is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic profile, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with C40-60 Alkyl Stearate?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients Individuals with known sensitivity to wax esters (rare)
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.