Ethylene glycol monostearate, also known as glycol stearate monoester or ethylene stearate, is a fatty acid ester that is commonly used in a range of personal care and cosmetic products. This versatile ingredient is produced by Ningbo Inno Pharmchem Co., Ltd., a leading supplier and factory of specialty chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates.

Properties and Characteristics

Ethylene glycol monostearate is a white waxy solid that is soluble in hot water and most organic solvents. It has a molecular formula of C20H40O3 and a molecular weight of 328.5 g/mol. This monoester is derived from stearic acid, an 18-carbon fatty acid, and ethylene glycol, a two-carbon diol. The resulting ester has a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the 2-position of the stearate moiety.

The unique chemical structure of ethylene glycol monostearate gives it several desirable properties, including:

- Emulsifying agent: Glycol stearate monoester is an effective emulsifier that can stabilize oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions. It can help to blend together ingredients that would normally separate, such as oil and water-based components in creams, lotions, and hair conditioners.

- Thickening agent: Ethylene glycol monostearate can also act as a thickener or viscosity enhancer in cosmetic formulations. It can increase the thickness and body of products, making them easier to apply and improving their texture.

- Opacifying agent: In addition, glycol stearate monoester can be used as an opacifying or pearlescing agent in shampoos, shower gels, and other products. It can provide a pearly or milky appearance to formulations, making them more visually appealing to consumers.

Applications and Uses

Ethylene glycol monostearate is a versatile ingredient that is widely used in the personal care and cosmetic industry. Some common applications and uses of this monoester include:

- Emulsions: Glycol stearate monoester is often used as an emulsifying agent in creams, lotions, and other emulsion-based products. It can help to stabilize the mixture and prevent it from separating over time. It can also improve the texture and feel of the product, making it smoother and more luxurious.

- Hair care: Ethylene glycol monostearate is a popular ingredient in hair care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. It can help to improve the texture and manageability of hair, making it easier to style and reducing frizz and flyaways.

- Skin care: Glycol stearate monoester is also used in a range of skin care products, including moisturizers, sunscreens, and anti-aging creams. It can help to hydrate and protect the skin, while also improving the texture and feel of the product.

- Cosmetics: In addition, ethylene glycol monostearate is often used in cosmetics, such as lipsticks, foundations, and eyeshadows. It can act as a thickener or emulsifier in these products, helping to improve their consistency and performance.

Benefits and Advantages

There are several benefits and advantages to using ethylene glycol monostearate in personal care and cosmetic products. Some of these include:

- Improved stability: Glycol stearate monoester can help to improve the stability of emulsion-based products, preventing them from separating or becoming rancid over time.

- Enhanced texture: Ethylene glycol monostearate can improve the texture and feel of products, making them smoother, silkier, and more luxurious.

- Opacity and pearlescence: In products such as shampoos and shower gels, glycol stearate monoester can provide an attractive pearlescent or opalescent appearance.

- Compatibility: This monoester is compatible with a wide range of other ingredients, making it suitable for use in a variety of formulations.

- Cost-effective: Ethylene glycol monostearate is a cost-effective ingredient that can help to reduce the overall cost of formulating personal care and cosmetic products.

Conclusion

In summary, ethylene glycol monostearate is a versatile ingredient that offers many benefits and advantages for personal care and cosmetic products. As a leading manufacturer and supplier of specialty chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates, Ningbo Inno Pharmchem Co., Ltd. produces high-quality glycol stearate monoester that is suitable for use in a range of formulations. Whether you are formulating emulsions, hair care products, skin care products, or cosmetics, ethylene glycol monostearate can help to improve their stability, texture, and appearance, while also providing cost-effective solutions for your formulation needs.

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