Ethylhexyl Polyhydroxystearate
AKA “Ethylhexyl Polyhydroxystearate
Emollient
Ingredient Facts
Ethylhexyl polyhydroxystearate
Emollient · Emollient · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Clean
Ethylhexyl Polyhydroxystearate is the ester of 2-ethylhexanol and Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Family
N/A (synthetically derived)
CAS #
1423155-00-3
See origin →
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic emollient and emulsifier developed in the late 20th century. Created to provide soft-focus and skin-conditioning benefits while improving the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
ewg-1
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR