Trihydroxystearin is the INCI name for the ester compound formed by the reaction of 12-hydroxystearic acid and glycerol. It is commonly used as a nonionic thickener, structurant and skin sensory conditioner in cosmetics and personal care products. It can improve the viscosity, consistency and appearance texture of emulsions and oil-based systems, and is particularly suitable for products such as creams, lipsticks, antiperspirants and powders.
Basic properties
Trihydroxystearin (abbreviated as THS) is a triglyceride composed of C16-C22 fatty acids, with a CAS number of 139-44-6 and a molecular formula of C57H110O9. It has a white to light yellow waxy solid with a slight odor. It is made by hydrogenating refined castor oil and has good compatibility with a variety of esters, vegetable oils and synthetic emollients. It can also synergize with common
Emulsifying wax to improve system stability.
This ingredient has excellent thixotropic properties - it becomes more fluid when subjected to shear forces (such as when applied), and can quickly restore its structure after the shear forces are removed. This property allows it to maintain smooth ductility and stability in viscous systems. Trihydroxystearin is usually processed in the oil phase and remains stable under both hot and cold processes.
Role in cosmetics
As a thickener and cosmetic raw material, trihydroxystearin is essential to improving formula stability and texture. It can make the viscosity of emulsions uniform, reduce water precipitation, and create beautiful forms such as smooth oil gels and "ice cream" textures. In addition, it forms a breathable barrier on the skin surface, helping to moisturize for a long time and improve the experience of use.
Trihydroxystearin is derived from castor oil and is a natural ingredient. It is an environmentally friendly choice in "clean beauty" formulas. In makeup, it can help disperse pigments and make the product texture more uniform. Due to its good compatibility with various lipid systems, it has high application flexibility in skin care and makeup formulas.
In cosmetic formulations, the recommended addition level of trihydroxystearin is 1%–10%, which can be adjusted according to the desired viscosity and texture.