Trihydroxystearin is the triester of glycerin and hydroxystearic acid, used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a thickening, gelling, and stabilizing agent. It helps suspend pigments and control the texture and consistency of oil-based products such as lipsticks, balms, and creams.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation | Rare | Mild, infrequent reports; generally considered low-irritation |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Isolated sensitization potential, uncommon in patch-test data |
| Comedogenic reaction (clogged pores) | Rare | Possible in acne-prone individuals due to its lipid base |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.