Description

GLYCERYL MONOSTEARATE (GMS)

INCI Name: Glyceryl Stearate
Common Name: Glyceryl Monostearate / GMS
Chemical Name: Glycerol monostearate / Glyceryl stearate
CAS No.: 123-94-4*
Chemical Formula: C₂₁H₄₂O₄*
Molecular Weight: 358.56 g/mol*
Chemical Class: Glycerol fatty-acid ester
Appearance: White to off-white waxy flakes, beads, powder or solid, depending on grade
Water Solubility: Practically insoluble in water
Primary Functions: Emulsifier / Co-emulsifier • Emollient • Structuring Agent • Consistency Enhancer • Opacifying Agent

*These chemical identity values describe glyceryl monostearate as a defined chemical compound. Commercial GMS products may be mixtures of glycerol monoesters together with di- and triglycerides and may also contain glycerides derived from other fatty acids. Your supplier’s COA/TDS/SDS takes priority for the material you actually sell.

6. Product Description

Glyceryl Monostearate (GMS) is a glycerol fatty-acid ester widely used in cosmetic and personal-care formulations for its emulsifying, structuring, consistency-enhancing and emollient properties.

It can help develop the body and texture of creams and lotions and contribute to the stability and sensory characteristics of emulsion systems.

In many formulations, GMS is used together with other emulsifiers and fatty structuring agents rather than being relied upon as the sole emulsifier.

Commercial GMS is available in different grades, and properties can vary according to mono-glyceride content, fatty-acid composition and manufacturing process. Formulators should therefore select the appropriate grade according to the supplier specification and intended formulation.

7. Functions & Benefits

Emulsifier / Co-emulsifier — Helps support oil-and-water emulsion systems, depending on the grade and overall emulsifier system.

Structuring Agent — Contributes body and structure to creams, lotions and other emulsions.

Consistency Enhancer — Helps increase product consistency and produce richer textures.

Emollient — Contributes softness and a smoother sensory feel to cosmetic formulations.

Emulsion Stabilization — Can support emulsion stability when incorporated into an appropriately designed emulsifier system.

Opacifying Effect — Can contribute to the white, opaque appearance of creams and lotions.

Texture Modifier — Helps modify cream body, richness and application characteristics.

8. Applications

Suitable for:

Face Cream • Body Cream • Moisturizing Cream • Body Lotion • Facial Lotion • Hand Cream • Sunscreen Formulations • Hair Conditioner • Hair Mask • Cleansing Cream • Personal-Care Emulsions