Isocetyl stearate

Isocetyl stearate (CAS 25339-09-7) is a synthetic ester produced by reacting isocetyl alcohol with stearic acid. It carries no E-code designation and is commercially available under trade names including Kessco ICS, Crodamol ICS, Ceraphyl 494, Kemester 5822, and Standamul 7061.

In personal care formulations, it functions as an emollient and plasticizer, reducing drag in skin creams and color cosmetics by forming a non-occlusive film that improves spreadability without a greasy residue. In metalworking and industrial lubricant applications, it acts as a boundary lubricant, reducing friction between metal surfaces through its ester polarity and film-forming capacity.

Isocetyl stearate is supplied as a technical-grade oily liquid and falls under REACH registration requirements for EU market supply. No FCC or pharmacopoeial monograph applies. Procurement quantities typically range from drum to IBC formats depending on supplier; buyers should confirm REACH compliance documentation prior to sourcing.