MAGNESIUM STEARATE
Commonly Found In
Overview
Magnesium stearate is the magnesium salt of stearic acid, used as a lubricant, anticaking, and slip agent in cosmetic powders and pressed products. It is the most widely used pharmaceutical tablet lubricant and is considered safe and inert at cosmetic concentrations. May have very low comedogenic potential depending on formulation.
Also known as: magnesium distearate, stearic acid, magnesium salt, dibasic magnesium stearate
Key Benefits
Functions as a lubricant and slip agent in powders; no direct skin-conditioning benefit. Studies suggest it is well-tolerated and non-irritating at cosmetic concentrations.
Supporting Research
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β Safety Assessment of Magnesium Stearate: Assessed safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Very low comedogenic potential; rating 0-1 depending on concentration and formulation context
Source: Published comedogenicity literature
Irritancy Rating
Very low irritancy; inert mineral salt well tolerated on skin
Source: CIR Expert Panel
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β10%
Optimal
2β5%
No specific regulatory concentration limit. Standard adjunct lubricant/binder in pressed and loose powder formulations.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Widely used as powder lubricant and binder. Compatible with most cosmetic powder systems. EU Annex IV/150 lists as permitted colorant.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (IV/150) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Widely permitted globally. Inert mineral salt with well-established safety record in pharmaceutical and cosmetic use.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 9 ingredients in the ANTICAKING category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Not found in nature as such. Stearic acid (the fatty acid component) is found in animal fats, cocoa butter, and shea butter. Magnesium is abundant in the Earth's crust.
π How It's Made
Produced by reacting magnesium oxide or magnesium hydroxide with stearic acid. Can also be made by reacting a sodium stearate solution with magnesium sulfate.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used as a lubricant and anticaking agent in face powders and pressed cosmetics (foundation, blush, eyeshadow). Improves slip and skin adherence of powder products. Also used in loose powders for oil absorption.
π¬ Other Applications
By far the most common pharmaceutical excipient (pill lubricant). Also used in food manufacturing (anti-caking agent), as a mold release agent in plastics, and in chalk and crayon production.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Magnesium stearate is in virtually every pill and tablet you've ever taken β it's used as a lubricant to prevent tablets from sticking to manufacturing equipment
- β’ It's one of the most controversial inactive ingredients on the internet, with many alternative health claims against it, though no scientific evidence of harm at dietary levels
- β’ About 1% of every tablet's weight is typically magnesium stearate
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex IV entry 150
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β Safety Assessment of Magnesium Stearate
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
ALUMINUM SILICATE
KAOLIN
ALUMINUM STEARATE
CALCIUM STEARATE
MAGNESIUM CARBONATE
Zinc White
ZINC OXIDE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MAGNESIUM STEARATE used for in cosmetics?
MAGNESIUM STEARATE is primarily used for anticaking in cosmetic products. It also serves as bulking, colorant. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate MAGNESIUM STEARATE?
MAGNESIUM STEARATE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to MAGNESIUM STEARATE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on MAGNESIUM STEARATE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For anticaking, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Where can I find official regulation information about MAGNESIUM STEARATE?
Official information about MAGNESIUM STEARATE regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.