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Glyceryl Stearate Citrate

A gentle mixer.

What it does

An emulsifier made from glycerin, a fatty acid and citric acid. It helps oil and water blend and softens skin.

Good to know

Also used in food (E 472c). EU food scientists (EFSA) reviewed it in 2020 and saw no need to set a daily limit.

Often found in: Hand creams, Body lotions, Face creams, Sunscreens

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: No special limit in the EU or UK. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

• EFSA: Re-evaluation of acetic, lactic, citric, tartaric and related esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (E 472a-f) (2020) (Independent)
• CIR: Amended Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Glyceryl Diesters and Related Ingredients (2007) (Industry-funded)