Allowed in EU

Polyhydroxystearic Acid

A cosmetic ingredient used as surfactant - emulsifying in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

12-Hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, homopolymer

What does it do?

Polyhydroxystearic Acid is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Surfactant - emulsifying

    surfactant that forms and stabilises emulsions of oil and water — without it, creams and lotions would separate

EU regulatory status

Polyhydroxystearic Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Polyhydroxystearic Acid?

Polyhydroxystearic Acid is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 12-Hydroxyoctadecanoic acid, homopolymer

Is Polyhydroxystearic Acid allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Polyhydroxystearic Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Polyhydroxystearic Acid do in cosmetic products?

Polyhydroxystearic Acid is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: surfactant - emulsifying.

What is the CAS number of Polyhydroxystearic Acid?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Polyhydroxystearic Acid is 27924-99-8 / 58128-22-6.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010