Is Stearic Acid Comedogenic?
Comedogenic rating: 2/5 — Low–moderate risk
Stearic Acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and texture agent. In cosmetics it is typically found in creams, cleansers and bar products.
| Comedogenic rating | 2/5 — Low–moderate risk |
|---|---|
| Pore-clogging | Low–moderate |
| Fungal-acne safe | Yes |
| Category | Fatty acid |
Is Stearic Acid comedogenic?
Stearic Acid carries a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most people tolerate it well and it is unlikely to be a primary cause of breakouts. If your skin is extremely acne-prone, keep a light eye on it in leave-on products used around the T-zone, but for most users it is not a major concern.
Does Stearic Acid cause fungal acne?
Stearic Acid is generally considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It is not among the oils, fatty acids or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast, so it should not aggravate fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) for most people.
Should you use Stearic Acid if you're acne-prone?
Stearic Acid is fine for normal, dry and combination skin. Very acne-prone users should introduce it slowly and watch for congestion, but it does not need to be avoided outright.
How Stearic Acid compares to other fatty acids
| Ingredient | Rating | Pore-clogging |
|---|---|---|
| Stearic Acid | 2/5 | Low–moderate |
| Lauric Acid | 4/5 | Likely |
Frequently asked questions
Is Stearic Acid comedogenic?
Stearic Acid carries a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most people tolerate it well and it is unlikely to be a primary cause of breakouts. If your skin is extremely acne-prone, keep a light eye on it in leave-on products used around the T-zone, but for most users it is not a major concern.
Does Stearic Acid cause fungal acne?
Stearic Acid is generally considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It is not among the oils, fatty acids or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast, so it should not aggravate fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) for most people.
Is Stearic Acid safe for acne-prone skin?
Stearic Acid is fine for normal, dry and combination skin. Very acne-prone users should introduce it slowly and watch for congestion, but it does not need to be avoided outright.
What products is Stearic Acid found in?
Stearic Acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and texture agent, and is commonly found in creams, cleansers and bar products.
What can I use instead of Stearic Acid?
Look for non-comedogenic emollients rated 0–1 such as squalane, glycerin, hemp seed oil or sunflower oil.
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