C18-38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate

C18-38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate is a high–molecular weight emollient/structuring wax ester used to improve slip, film formation, and texture, typically at low-to-moderate percentages in leave-on products. As a non-volatile, non-reactive lipid-like material, it has a low likelihood of causing stinging or barrier disruption and is generally well tolerated in patch testing, though very reactive eczema patients can still rarely flare to any occlusive emollient. Given its largely inert profile but acknowledging occasional sensitivity in compromised skin, it fits best as very gentle rather than completely inert. Safety Notes: C18-38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate is used as a structuring, slip/feel modifier and oil-phase gellant in leave-on creams, lotions, sunscreens and color cosmetics; in real-world INCI lists it can appear at very low levels (~0.05–0.3%) as a secondary texture aid. Typical usage for sensory/viscosity building is ~0.5–5%, while high-structure consumer products (balms, sticks, anhydrous pomades, heavy barrier creams) can reach ~10–15% to achieve firm gel networks and pay-off; rinse-off formats generally sit toward the low end because less structuring is needed.