Glycol distearate, 100 g

Glycol Distearate: The Pearlizing and Opacifying Powerhouse for Cosmetics

Discover the versatile functionality of Glycol Distearate, a valuable cosmetic ingredient renowned for its ability to impart a beautiful pearlescent effect and enhance the opacity of various personal care formulations. This fatty acid ester, derived from stearic acid and ethylene glycol, is a solid, waxy substance that plays a crucial role in elevating the aesthetic appeal and texture of a wide range of cosmetic products. Its unique properties make it a sought-after component for creating visually appealing and consumer-friendly formulations.

Applications and Areas of Use in Cosmetics:

Glycol Distearate's primary functions – pearlizing and opacifying – make it an indispensable ingredient in numerous cosmetic applications:

• Shampoos and Hair Conditioners: Glycol Distearate is widely used to create the desirable pearly or shimmering appearance in shampoos, conditioners, and body washes. It not only enhances the visual appeal but can also contribute to the creamy texture of these products.
• Body Washes and Shower Gels: Similar to hair care, it provides an elegant, pearlescent sheen to liquid soaps and shower gels, making them more attractive to consumers. It can also help to increase the viscosity and perceived richness of the formulation.
• Lotions and Creams: While not primarily an emollient, Glycol Distearate can contribute to the opacity and luxurious feel of lotions, creams, and body butters. It can create a richer, more substantial appearance without significantly altering the formulation's primary function.
• Facial Cleansers: In facial washes and scrubs, Glycol Distearate can impart a subtle pearlescence, enhancing the product's visual appeal and contributing to a smoother application.
• Sunscreen Formulations: It can be used to increase the opacity of sunscreen lotions and creams, which can indirectly contribute to a more even application and potentially better coverage of UV filters on the skin.
• Decorative Cosmetics: Although less common, Glycol Distearate can find niche applications in certain decorative cosmetics like cream eyeshadows or highlighters to provide a subtle shimmer or pearlescent effect.
• Soap Bars: It can be incorporated into soap bar formulations to add a pearly appearance, enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
• Hair Styling Products: In some hair styling creams or waxes, Glycol Distearate can contribute to the product's texture and opacity, providing a visual cue for its consistency.

Key Benefits for Cosmetic Formulations:

• Pearlizing Agent: Imparts a characteristic pearly or iridescent effect, significantly enhancing the visual appeal of the product.
• Opacifying Agent: Increases the opacity or cloudiness of transparent or translucent formulations, providing a richer and more substantial appearance.
• Viscosity Modifier: Can contribute to increasing the viscosity and thickness of liquid formulations, improving their texture and pourability.
• Emollient Properties (Minor): While not its primary function, it can offer some mild emollient properties, contributing to a smoother skin feel.
• Stabilizing Agent (Secondary): May help to stabilize emulsions and prevent the separation of oil and water phases in some formulations.
• Aesthetic Enhancement: Significantly improves the overall aesthetic appeal and consumer perception of cosmetic products.
• Versatile Compatibility: Generally compatible with a wide range of other cosmetic ingredients.
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Cosmetic Recipe: Pearlescent Body Wash

Instructions:

1. In a clean beaker, heat the water to approximately 70-75°C.
2. Slowly add the Glycol Distearate and Cocamide MEA to the heated water while gently stirring until fully melted and dispersed. This step is crucial for achieving the pearlizing effect.
3. Allow the mixture to cool down to around 40°C while continuing to stir gently. The pearlescence will start to become visible during the cooling process.
4. In a separate beaker, combine the Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine.
5. Slowly add the surfactant mixture to the Glycol Distearate mixture while stirring gently to avoid excessive foaming.
6. Add the Glycerin and Fragrance and mix well.
7. Adjust the pH of the formulation to the desired level (typically around 5.5-6.5) using Citric Acid.
8. Finally, add the preservative according to the manufacturer's recommendations and mix thoroughly.
9. Allow the body wash to sit for a few hours to ensure the pearlescence is fully developed and stable.
10. Package the finished product in suitable containers.

Application Recommendations:

• Glycol Distearate is typically incorporated into the oil phase or heated water phase of emulsions to ensure proper melting and dispersion.
• The typical usage rate in cosmetic formulations ranges from 1% to 5%, depending on the desired level of pearlescence and opacity.
• For optimal pearlizing effects, it's often beneficial to combine Glycol Distearate with other pearlizing agents or opacifiers like Cocamide MEA or Cocamide DEA.
• The cooling process after the addition of Glycol Distearate is critical for the development of the pearlescent effect. Gentle stirring during cooling helps to ensure uniform pearlization.
• Ensure thorough mixing to achieve even distribution of Glycol Distearate throughout the formulation.
• Consider the overall aesthetic goals of your product when determining the appropriate usage level of Glycol Distearate.