Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Magnesium Stearate

Magnesium octadecanoate

Safety Notes

Magnesium salt of stearic acid; powdery feel; binder; lubricant in pressed powders; pharmaceutical grade used in pressed cosmetics; very low sensitization risk

Function & Common Use

Function

Slip Agent / Binder / Powdery Feel

Category

Viscosity Agent

Common In

Pressed powders tablets binders

Origin

Synthetic (magnesium + stearic acid)

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Magnesium Stearate safe to use in skincare?

Magnesium Stearate has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Magnesium salt of stearic acid; powdery feel; binder; lubricant in pressed powders; pharmaceutical grade used in pressed cosmetics; very low sensitization risk

Is Magnesium Stearate allowed in India?

Magnesium Stearate is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Magnesium Stearate used for in cosmetics?

Magnesium Stearate functions as: Slip Agent / Binder / Powdery Feel. It is commonly found in: Pressed powders tablets binders.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS557-04-0
EC209-150-3

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