Product: Glyceryl Stearate & PEG 100 Stearate / Arlacel 165 Substitute
Rchem Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate is a high-purity, non-ionic self-emulsifying base, presented as white to off-white, waxy beads, flakes, or pastilles. This proprietary blend combines a lipophilic emollient (Glyceryl Stearate, HLB ~3.8) with a high-HLB hydrophilic emulsifier (PEG-100 Stearate, HLB ~18.8) in an optimized ratio to produce a complete, balanced oil-in-water (O/W) emulsification system. Renowned for its exceptional stability, ease of use, and ability to produce elegant, creamy lotions, it is a cornerstone “one-s
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
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VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate and using Glyceryl Stearate alone?
This is a critical distinction. Glyceryl Stearate alone is a lipophilic (low HLB) co-emulsifier and emollient but cannot form a stable emulsion on its own; it requires a high-HLB emulsifier to produce an O/W emulsion. Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate (the blend) combines the lipophilic Glyceryl Stearate with the high-HLB PEG-100 Stearate in an optimized ratio. This blend functions as a complete, self-emulsifying base that can produce stable O/W emulsions without any additional emulsifiers. Using the blend significantly simplifies formulation and ensures batch-to-batch consistency.
Yes, absolutely. Rchem's Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate is formulated to be an exact functional replacement for branded products like Arlacel 165 (Croda) and Simulsol 165 (Seppic). It has the same HLB value (~11), same melting range (50-60°C), and same recommended usage levels (2-8%). It can be used as a drop-in substitute in existing formulations without requiring re-optimization. However, as with any raw material change, we recommend conducting stability testing to validate performance in your specific formulation.
Can this product be used as a direct substitute for Arlacel 165 or Simulsol 165?
Not necessarily. Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate alone will produce stable, elegant O/W emulsions. However, many formulators choose to add a fatty alcohol (Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol) at 1-3% to: (1) Increase emulsion viscosity – produce thicker, richer creams; (2) Enhance stability – further strengthen the interfacial film; (3) Improve skin feel – add a more substantive, velvety after-feel. For light lotions, the base alone is sufficient; for rich creams, additional fatty alcohols are recommended.
Do I need to add a fatty alcohol (e.g., Cetearyl Alcohol) when using this self-emulsifying base?
Standard Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate uses PEG-100 Stearate, which is an ethoxylated emulsifier. Ethoxylated ingredients are generally not permitted in strict natural certifications such as ECOCERT, COSMOS, or NATRUE. For natural-certified formulations, Rchem can supply alternative self-emulsifying systems such as Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Cetearyl Glucoside (and) Cetearyl Alcohol, or Cetearyl Olivate (and) Sorbitan Olivate. Please specify your certification requirements when ordering.
Is this product suitable for natural or ECOCERT-certified formulations?
Handling: The product is a waxy solid (beads/flakes) at room temperature. Use appropriate PPE including a dust mask, gloves, and safety goggles. Avoid inhalation of dust. Formulation (Hot Process O/W Emulsion): (1) Add Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate to the oil phase along with other lipophilic ingredients (oils, emollients, fatty alcohols, actives); (2) Heat both oil and water phases to 70-75°C (158-167°F) ; (3) Ensure the emulsifier is fully melted; (4) Slowly add the water phase to the oil phase with high-shear mixing; (5) Homogenize for 2-5 minutes; (6) Cool slowly with gentle stirring to room temperature. Typical usage: 2-8% depending on oil phase content (2% for light lotions with 5-10% oil phase; 8% for rich creams with 30-40% oil phase). Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed original containers. Protect from moisture, extreme heat (below 40°C / 104°F), and direct sunlight. Shelf life is typically 24-36 months under proper storage. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive handling, safety, and first-aid information.
