POLYHYDROXYSTEARIC ACID

Polyhydroxystearic acid improves the performance of pigment-rich formulations by helping solid particles stay evenly dispersed in the oil phase.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is especially useful in mineral sunscreens and color cosmetics because it supports smoother application, better coverage, and more uniform film formation.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is a practical ingredient when a formula needs stronger suspension stability, richer texture, and improved visual consistency.

CAS Number: 27924-99-8
EC Number: 500-140-7
Molecular Formula: C18H36O3
Molecular Weight: 300.48

Synonyms: Polyhydroxystearic acid (2300 MW), RefChem:8874, 12-Hydroxystearic acid estolide, 12-Hydroxystearic acid homopolymer, PELEMOL PHS-8, Polyhydroxystearic acid 8, UNII-YXH47AOU0F, YXH47AOU0F, Polyhydroxystearate Acid, Castor Oil-Derived Polymeric Ester, Polymeric Fatty Acid Dispersant, Cosmetic Pigment Dispersant, Mineral Sunscreen Dispersant, Oil-Phase Dispersing Agent, Waxy Cosmetic Thickener, Film-Forming Cosmetic Polymer

Polyhydroxystearic acid is a polymeric fatty acid derivative commonly used in cosmetic and personal care formulations as a dispersing agent, film former, emulsion stabilizer, thickener, and texture-improving ingredient.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is often derived from castor-oil-based hydroxystearic acid chemistry and is especially valued for helping disperse mineral pigments and UV filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide more evenly in oil-based systems.
Because of its waxy, polymeric structure, Polyhydroxystearic acid can improve product body, pigment suspension, film uniformity, and the sensory feel of creams, sunscreens, makeup, and color cosmetic formulations.

Polyhydroxystearic acid is a natural, soft, pliable wax made from castor oil.
Polyhydroxystearic acid acts as a texturizing agent, thickener, emollient and film former in lotions and creams and color cosmetics.

Polyhydroxystearic acid can also be used as an oil-gelling agent.
Polyhydroxystearic acid acts as a film-former, emulsion stabilizer, sunscreen enhancer, and plasticizer.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is ideal for creating creamier textures while increasing the stability of emulsions.

Polyhydroxystearic acid is a naturally occurring compound extracted from castor oil.
Castor oil is obtained from castor beans.
Polyhydoxystearic acid is soft, pliable wax.

Polyhydroxystearic acid is a soft and pliable wax that is naturally derived from castor oil.
Polyhydroxystearic acid acts as a texturing agent, wax, thickener and film former.

Polyhydroxystearic acid's melting point 50-70oC (122-158F).
Polyhydroxystearic acid's saponification Value 90-125mg KOH/g.

Polyhydroxystearic acid is thick pasty thickener, providing consistency and emolliency to lotions and creams but also color cosmetics.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is great oil-gelling agent.

Polyhydroxystearic acid acts also as film-former, emulsion stabilizer, sunscreen enhancer, and plasticizer.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is ideal for creating creamier textures while increasing the stability of emulsions.

Polyhydroxystearic acid plays a variety of roles in cosmetic formulations, including acting as a suspension agent, emulsion stabilizer, film-forming agent, and texturizing thickener.
This plant-based or synthetic component is often used to coat mineral sunscreen active ingredients, helping them spread evenly.

Polyhydroxystearic acid suppliers also claim it helps increase UV absorption and can reduce the white residue left by titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
In makeup, Polyhydroxystearic acid helps pigments spread more evenly.

Polyhydroxystearic acid adds softness to lotions and creams.
As a starting material, Polyhydroxystearic acid is described as a soft, flexible light brown to brown wax derived from castor oil.

Uses of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:
Polyhydroxystearic acid is commonly used as a film-forming agent, emulsifier, and emollient in cosmetic products.
The role of an emulsifier is very crucial in any formulation since the product with oil and water-based components get separated into its components.

Emulsifier holds both together and offers stability as well as uniform distribution of oil into water or vice versa.
As an emollient, Polyhydroxystearic acid fills up the gaps in between the dead cells in the skin.

Polyhydroxystearic acid makes skin appear soft and smoother.
Polyhydroxystearic acid forms a thin film on the surface of the skin.

Polyhydroxystearic acid forms a barrier and protects the skin from allergens, bacteria, and irritants which pass into deeper layers of the skin preventing dryness, and itchiness on the skin.
Polyhydroxystearic acid maintains and reinforces the lipid barrier.

Polyhydroxystearic acid also retains moisture in the skin and makes it appear more soft, smooth, and healthy.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is also used in sunscreens to coat the oxide particles.

Polyhydroxystearic acid also helps in the proper dispersion of sunscreen when applied on the skin and increases its effectiveness.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is used in formulations of creams, lotions, sun care products, and other skincare products.

Polyhydroxystearic acid is used as a dispersing agent in cosmetic and personal care formulations, especially for mineral pigments and inorganic UV filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Polyhydroxystearic acid helps keep solid particles evenly distributed in oil-based or water-in-oil systems, improving product uniformity and reducing pigment settling.

In sunscreen formulations, Polyhydroxystearic acid supports smoother mineral filter dispersion, better film formation, and more even coverage on the skin.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is also used in foundations, BB creams, concealers, color cosmetics, creams, balms, sticks, and pigment concentrates to improve texture, stability, and application feel.
Polyhydroxystearic acid can also function as a film former, emulsion stabilizer, oil-phase thickener, and texture enhancer in formulations that need better suspension, creaminess, and long-lasting surface performance.

Benefits of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:
Polyhydroxystearic acid is commonly used as a film-forming agent, emulsifier, and emollient in cosmetic products.
The role of an emulsifier is very crucial in any formulation since the product with oil and water-based components get separated into its components.

Emulsifier holds both together and offers stability as well as uniform distribution of oil into water or vice versa.
As an emollient, Polyhydroxystearic acid fills up the gaps in between the dead cells in the skin.
Polyhydroxystearic acid makes skin appear soft and smoother.

Polyhydroxystearic acid forms a thin film on the surface of the skin.
Polyhydroxystearic acid forms a barrier and protects the skin from allergens, bacteria, and irritants which pass into deeper layers of the skin.

Otherwise which can lead to conditions like acne, eczema, dryness, and itchiness on the skin.
Polyhydroxystearic acid maintains and reinforces the lipid barrier.

Polyhydroxystearic acid also retains moisture in the skin and makes it appear more soft, smooth, and healthy.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is also used in sunscreens to coat the oxide particles.

Polyhydroxystearic acid also helps in the proper dispersion of sunscreen when applied on the skin and increases its effectiveness.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is used in formulations of creams, lotions, sun care products, and other skincare products.

Origin of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:
Polyhydroxystearic acid is a polymer of hydroxystearic acid obtained from castor oil.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is produced by the polycondensation of 12-hydroxystearic acid, which is derived from hydrogenated castor oil.

This process creates a branched, high-molecular-weight polymer.
Polyhydroxystearic acid is fully plant-derived, biodegradable, and highly suitable for natural, organic, and clean beauty formulations (COSMOS and ECOCERT compliant).

Stability and Reactivity of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:

Chemical stability:
Polyhydroxystearic acid is expected to be stable under recommended handling and storage conditions.

Reactivity:
No hazardous reaction is expected under normal cosmetic or industrial formulation use.

Conditions to avoid:
Excessive heat, open flames, contamination, strong oxidizing conditions, and unsuitable storage conditions should be avoided.

Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents and highly reactive chemicals should be avoided.

Hazardous decomposition products:
Thermal decomposition or fire may produce carbon oxides and irritating fumes.

Handling and Storage of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:

Handling:
Polyhydroxystearic acid should be handled according to good industrial hygiene and cosmetic raw material handling practices.

Safe handling:
Avoid contact with eyes and avoid prolonged or repeated skin contact during bulk handling.

Processing:
Gentle heating may be required before incorporation because the material is waxy or paste-like.

Storage:
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.

Storage protection:
Protect from excessive heat, contamination, moisture, and incompatible materials.

First Aid Measures of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:

Inhalation:
Move the person to fresh air if fumes, dust, or aerosols are inhaled.

Skin contact:
Wash affected skin with water and mild soap.

Eye contact:
Rinse carefully with plenty of water for several minutes.

Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water and seek medical advice if discomfort occurs.

Firefighting Measures of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:

Suitable extinguishing media:
Water spray, foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide may be used.

Fire hazards:
Heating or fire may produce irritating fumes and carbon oxides.

Protective equipment:
Firefighters should wear protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus.

Accidental Release Measures of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:

Personal precautions:
Avoid contact with eyes and avoid slipping hazards from spilled waxy material.

Environmental precautions:
Prevent large quantities from entering drains, soil, or surface waters.

Cleanup method:
Collect solid or paste material mechanically and absorb residues with inert material if necessary.

Disposal:
Dispose of collected material according to local regulations.

Exposure Controls / Personal Protection of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:

Engineering controls:
Use adequate ventilation during heating, melting, or bulk processing.

Eye protection:
Safety glasses or chemical goggles are recommended.

Hand protection:
Protective gloves are recommended.

Skin protection:
Suitable work clothing is recommended.

Respiratory protection:
Use respiratory protection if fumes, dust, or aerosol exposure may occur.

Identifiers of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:
CAS Number: 27924-99-8
Chem/IUPAC Name: Octadecanoic acid, 12-hydroxy-, homopolymer; 12-Hydroxystearic acid homopolymer
EINECS/ELINCS No: 500-140-7
COSING REF No: 79007

CAS No.: 27924-99-8
Chemical Name: Polyhydroxystearic acid
CBNumber: CB5965807
Molecular Formula: C18H36O3
Molecular Weight: 300.48

InChI: InChI=1S/C18H36O3/c1-2-3-4-11-14-17(19)15-12-9-7-5-6-8-10-13-16-18(20)21/h17,19H,2-16H2,1H3,(H,20,21)
InChIKey: ULQISTXYYBZJSJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: C(O)(CCCCCC)CCCCCCCCCCC(=O)O

Properties of Polyhydroxystearic Acid:
Boiling Point: 436.3±18.0°C at 760 mmHg
Melting Point: 50-70°C
Solubility: Soluble in oil; insoluble in water