EMULGATORS

Glyceryl Stearate SE, 100 g

Name: Glyceryl Stearate SE, 100 g
Brand: Handymade
SKU: EM024_100
Price: 3.49 EUR
Availability: InStock

Pack size100 g500 g 1 kg

Glyceryl Stearate SE is a self-emulsifying form of glyceryl stearate – it is an emulsifying wax produced by esterification of glycerin and stearic acid (from vegetable oils), with “SE” meaning that the raw material also… full description

AvailabilityIn stock · 173 bal.

Product codeEM024_100

Batch30109433

Best before03/2027

€3.49incl. VAT€34.90/kg

Lowest price in the last 30 days: €3.49

Product description

Glyceryl Stearate SE is a self-emulsifying form of glyceryl stearate – it is an emulsifying wax produced by esterification of glycerin and stearic acid (from vegetable oils), with “SE” meaning that the raw material also contains a small amount of soapy components (alkaline stearates), which support the formation of a stable oil-in-water emulsion. In formulations it acts as an emulsifier and at the same time as a thickener – it improves viscosity, creaminess and reduces the “watery” feel of emulsions.

Key benefits

Self-emulsifying emulsifier for O/W (oil-in-water) emulsions.
Increases the stability of the emulsion and helps bind the oil phase.
Thickens and structures – gives a creamy, “fuller” texture.
Improves sensorial properties – smoother glide and a silkier feel on the skin.
Supports a pearlescent effect in some shampoos and shower products (depending on composition and dosage).

Suitable for products such as

Face creams and emulsions (day/night).
Body lotions, creams and (emulsion-based) butters.
Cream deodorants and emulsion balms.
Hair conditioners and creamy masks.
Shampoos and shower gels – as a supportive structuring component (where desired).

Use in formulation

Miscible with: oils, butters and common emollients; intended primarily for O/W emulsions.
Soluble in: the oil phase after heating (melts); it does not dissolve in cold water.
Recommended dosage: typically 2–6% in emulsions (higher levels increase viscosity and waxy skin feel).
Processing method: add to the oil phase and heat until completely melted; usually heat the water and oil phases to a similar temperature, then emulsify and mix while cooling.
Stability tip: for more demanding formulations it is advisable to combine it with an additional stabiliser (e.g. cetyl/cetearyl alcohol, xanthan) according to the target texture.

Safety and storage

Store in a well-closed container, in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
Maintain good hygiene during handling to avoid unnecessary contamination of the raw material and subsequently the finished product.

FAQ

What does “SE” mean in Glyceryl Stearate?

“SE” means self-emulsifying – the raw material contains components that enable easier formation of an oil-in-water emulsion without the need to add separate soap-based emulsifiers.

Is it also suitable for anhydrous balms and oils?

Primarily it is intended for emulsions. In anhydrous products it may function more as a structuring agent, but the self-emulsifying effect is fully expressed only in the presence of water.

Can it affect the pH of the finished product?

Since SE types may contain soapy components, in some formulations they can slightly influence the final pH. It is recommended to always measure the pH of the finished emulsion and adjust it as needed.

Why might a cream with Glyceryl Stearate SE feel waxy?

At higher dosage levels or with a higher proportion of solid lipids, the emulsifying wax can create a firmer structure and a more “waxy” feel. It helps to reduce the dosage, adjust the oil phase or add a lighter emollient.

Can it be combined with other emulsifiers?

Yes. It is often combined with co-emulsifiers and stabilisers to fine-tune viscosity, slip and stability (e.g. with fatty alcohols or polymers). Always perform stability and sensorial testing.

See also other emulsifiers available from Handymade.sk.