Article last updated: October 15, 2024
Stearyl Erucamide, also known by its chemical name (Z)-N-Octadecyldocos-13-enamide, is a synthetic compound commonly used in the cosmetic industry. This ingredient is derived from erucic acid, which is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid found in various plant oils, such as rapeseed oil. Stearyl Erucamide is part of the amide family, which are compounds formed from the reaction of a carboxylic acid and an amine.
The history of Stearyl Erucamide in cosmetics dates back to its initial use in industrial applications, such as lubricants and anti-static agents. Over time, its beneficial properties for skin and hair care were recognized, leading to its incorporation into cosmetic formulations. Its ability to act as an opacifying agent, which helps to make products less transparent, and as a viscosity controlling agent, which adjusts the thickness of cosmetic products, has made it a valuable ingredient in the beauty industry.
The production of Stearyl Erucamide involves a chemical synthesis process where erucic acid is reacted with stearyl amine. This reaction forms the amide bond, resulting in the creation of Stearyl Erucamide. The process is carefully controlled to ensure the purity and effectiveness of the final product, making it suitable for use in various cosmetic applications.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of Stearyl Erucamide:
Stearyl Erucamide is known for its opacifying properties. In simple terms, this means it can make a product less transparent or more opaque. This is particularly useful in cosmetics where a certain visual appearance is desired. For example, in lotions or creams, an opaque appearance can give the product a richer, more luxurious look. It can also help in hiding any imperfections or inconsistencies in the formulation, ensuring a uniform and appealing appearance.
Another key benefit of Stearyl Erucamide is its ability to control the viscosity of cosmetic products. Viscosity refers to the thickness or thinness of a liquid. By adjusting the viscosity, Stearyl Erucamide helps in achieving the desired consistency of a product. This is crucial for ensuring that a cream spreads smoothly on the skin, or that a shampoo has the right flow when dispensed. Essentially, it helps in creating a pleasant user experience by making sure the product feels just right when applied.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
Stearyl Erucamide is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, there are potential side effects that users should be aware of:
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of Stearyl Erucamide during pregnancy and breastfeeding are lacking. Therefore, it is advisable for these individuals to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Stearyl Erucamide are relatively uncommon, but they can occur. To minimize the risk of an adverse reaction, it is recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage of any product containing this ingredient.
In terms of comedogenicity, Stearyl Erucamide is rated as a 2 on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 is totally non-comedogenic and 5 is highly comedogenic. This means that while it has a low potential to clog pores, individuals who are prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts should still exercise caution when using products containing this ingredient.
