stearic acid

• alias: stearic acid
• stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid commonly found in animal fats, cocoa butter, and shea butter. it is widely used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and eat industries for its emollient and stabilizing properties.

• chemical properties

  • molecular weight: 284.48 g/mol
  • density: 0.847 g/cm³
  • melting point: 69–70°C (156–158°F)
  • boiling point: 383°C (721°F)
  • solubility: insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol, chloroform, and ether
  • chemical formula: C₁₈H₃₆O₂

• usefulness in medicine

  • stearic acid is used in pharmaceutical formulations as a lubricant and stabilizer for tablets and capsules.
  • it supports skin health by acting as an emollient, helping to soften and hydrate the skin.
  • stearic acid is included in cosmetic products for its thickening and stabilizing properties in creams, lotions, and soaps.
  • it plays a role in energy metabolism as a source of energy for the body.
  • it is considered a relatively neutral saturated fat in terms of cardiovascular health compared to other saturated fatty acids.

• antibacterial and antimicrobial activity

  • stearic acid exhibits mild antimicrobial properties by disrupting the lipid membranes of certain microbes.
  • research highlights:
    • bacteria:
      • staphylococcus aureus research link
      • escherichia coli research link
    • fungi:
      • candida albicans research link

• research links

  • stearic acid and cosmetic applications
  • stearic acid and antimicrobial properties