Is stearyl alcohol a 'bad' alcohol for skin?

No, stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which is very different from drying alcohols like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. Fatty alcohols are beneficial for skin, providing moisturizing and emollient properties.

Can stearyl alcohol clog pores?

Stearyl alcohol is generally considered non-comedogenic, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores for most individuals. However, individual reactions can vary.

Home › Ingredients › Stearyl Alcohol

Stearyl Alcohol

Also known as: Octadecanol

Stearyl alcohol is a long-chain fatty alcohol derived from natural fats and oils. It functions as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener in cosmetic formulations. It helps to soften and smooth the skin and hair, while also stabilizing product textures.

Fatty alcohol

BenefitMinimal 0.8 / 4

Hydration i0.8 / 4

Whether the ingredient helps increase the skin’s water content — humectants that attract water, ingredients that reduce water loss, or ones that make skin feel less dry.

Barrier support i0.8 / 4

Whether it supports the skin barrier — restoring lipids, reducing water loss, aiding barrier repair, or strengthening the skin’s protective function.

RiskVery low 0 / 4

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

improves skin texture
enhances product stability
provides emollience

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Products with Stearyl Alcohol

SKIN1004

Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Moisture Cream

Pro-V Intensive Repair Conditioner

4.5/ 56/5/8

The Ordinary

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

4.4/ 529/11/6

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Frequently asked questions

Is stearyl alcohol a 'bad' alcohol for skin?: No, stearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which is very different from drying alcohols like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. Fatty alcohols are beneficial for skin, providing moisturizing and emollient properties.
Can stearyl alcohol clog pores?: Stearyl alcohol is generally considered non-comedogenic, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores for most individuals. However, individual reactions can vary.