The Index · Oil thickener / structuring agent
Trihydroxystearin
Trihydroxystearin
Hydrogenated castor-oil derived triglyceride that thickens oil phases.
FunctionalFunctional ingredient, not graded for skin benefits
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Hydrogenated castor-oil derived triglyceride that thickens oil phases.
What it does
Helps set anhydrous or W/O balms and stabilize pigments.
The evidence
Functional ingredient (not graded for skin benefits): Functional rheology aid; limited clinical “active” data (none expected). Credible chemical identity and cosmetic-use context come from CIR/SCCS/manufacturer INCI definitions and databases such as SpecialChem/PubChem[1].
How to use it
Expect this as a supporting INCI line item unless labeled as a featured active.
What it does in the formula
Functional ingredient — not graded for skin benefits
Hydrogenated castor-oil derived triglyceride that thickens oil phases.[1]
Safety & limits
Source and region, always
all — Used in cosmetics within conventional leave-on/rinse-off levels; see cited safety literature.[1] CA US EU UK
Sources · 2
Numbered as cited in the text
- [1]SpecialChem. SpecialChem INCI profile: Trihydroxystearin. SpecialChem (2024)other
- [2]Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Castor oil derivatives context. CIR (2015)regulator
Revision history
18 Sept 2026Drafted by botTheSkindex Desk