Isopropyl isostearate

Isopropyl isostearate (CAS 31478-84-9) is a branched-chain ester used as an emollient, carrier, and lubricant in personal care and industrial formulations. Also marketed as Wickenol 131 and Nikkol IPIS.

Where is Isopropyl isostearate used?

• Cosmetics and personal care: lightweight emollient and skin-conditioning carrier in lotions, color cosmetics, and sunscreens
• Industrial lubricants: base fluid or additive where a non-mineral, low-viscosity ester is required
• Metalworking fluids and release agents
• Coatings and adhesives: plasticizing solvent that improves substrate wetting and film flexibility
• Pigment dispersion in cosmetic and industrial coatings
• Its branched molecular structure resists crystallization at low temperatures, keeping formulations fluid and stable.

Good to know: Cosmetic-grade and technical-grade specifications meet the purity requirements of personal care versus industrial end uses. Cosmetic-grade material typically conforms to established supplier specifications, reviewed against internal QC standards or relevant ISO guidelines.

Commercial specifications

• Bulk supply in drums and IBCs