Pentaerythrityl Distearate is a diester of pentaerythritol and stearic acid (C18 fatty acid). With two free hydroxyl groups remaining, it retains some hydrophilic character while the two stearate chains provide emolliency and thickening. It is used as a co-emulsifier, viscosity builder, and emollient in creams, lotions, and anhydrous formulations.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Emollient — smooths and softens skin surface
+ Thickening — adds body and viscosity to formulations
+ Co-emulsifier — supports stable O/W and W/O emulsions
+ Controlled feel — balances hydrophilic and lipophilic properties
Pros
+ Versatile — functions in multiple formulation roles
+ Good heat stability — suitable for hot-process formulations
+ Non-greasy compared to triglycerides
+ Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients
Cons
− Semi-synthetic — uses stearic acid from natural sources but pentaerythritol is synthetic
− May require specific HLB emulsifier pairing for optimal stability
− Limited published safety data as standalone ingredient
Specifications
Property
Value
Usage Areas
Face, Eye, Body, Hair
Product Type
Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source
Semi-synthetic
Natural Level
Semi-synthetic
Safety Ratings
Metric
Rating
Skin Sensitivity
1/5
Comedogenic Rating
1-2/5
EWG Score
1/10
Regional Regulatory Limits
Region
Leave-on %
Rinse-off %
Status
EU (CosIng)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Japan (MHLW)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
ASEAN
No limit
No limit
Allowed
China (NMPA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Typical Usage % by Product Type
Product Type
Typical %
Face cream
0.5 - 3%
Body butter
1 - 5%
Lip balm
1 - 5%
References
CIR (2019) — Safety Assessment of Pentaerythrityl Compounds. cir-safety.org