Stearic monoethanolamide

Stearic monoethanolamide (CAS 111-57-9), also known as stearoyl ethanolamide or stearoyl-EA, is a fatty acid amide derived from stearic acid and ethanolamine. It functions as a rheology modifier, emulsifier, and moisturizing agent across personal care and pharmaceutical manufacturing. In cosmetic formulations, it thickens creams, lotions, and hair conditioners while contributing to a smooth, non-greasy skin feel. This makes it a preferred co-emulsifier in oil-in-water systems for various beauty products.

Solid bar soap and syndet bar manufacturers use it to improve hardness, lather structure, and skin conditioning properties. In pharmaceutical topical preparations, it supports emulsion stability and acts as a co-emulsifier in dermal delivery systems. Controlled viscosity is critical in these applications to ensure consistent application. It also appears in leave-on hair treatments, where its film-forming character aids moisture retention and improves overall hair manageability.

Stearic monoethanolamide is supplied as a white to off-white waxy solid, typically in flake or pastille form for ease of handling and dosing. It is available in cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications for global markets. These grades meet the purity requirements of different regulatory frameworks and quality standards. Minimum purity grades and packaging formats vary by supplier, with bulk quantities available for industrial-scale formulators and manufacturers.