(829 products available)
Sodium stearate is a salt that occurs naturally. In most cases, it is among the most common types of fatty acid soap. Sodium stearate is a chemical compound of the sodium salt of stearic acid. It exists as waxy white solid or powder, but most of the time it comes as a solid. In the recent past, it has become common to find it in the form of flakes. This is in contrast to some of the other sodium soaps which may be available as powder, pellets, or even blocks.
Nonetheless, regardless of its form, sodium stearate is often very easily soluble in water, at least to a certain extent. In other words, it can be dissolved in water to a particular degree.
Some of the most common and popular uses of sodium stearate range from manufacture of cosmetics, personal care products to pharmaceuticals and even industrial applications. This compound, which is also known as soap, helps to stabilize emulsions, act as lubricating agent, and even function as thickening agent for different lotions and creams.
In addition, sodium stearate can also be used in a number of other diverse products. Some of these products include candles, plastics, and even molds in the foundry industry. Therefore its versatility makes it a very highly sought after compound in numerous industries worldwide today.
There are a number of products in which sodium stearate is used, and this is what makes it very highly versatile and popular. Here are some of its most common applications:
As already mentioned earlier, sodium stearate is one of the most common ingredients in the cosmetics and personal care products industry. Its primary functions include emulsifying, thickening, and foaming agents in creams, lotions, and even shaving foams.
Additionally, it is also applied in the manufacture of soaps where it helps to make the soap bar hard and stable. This thus enhances the shelf life of the soap without necessarily compromising on quality or efficiency.
Sodium stearate is primarily used as an inactive ingredient or excipient in most of the pharmaceutical products. For instance, it is commonly applied in tablet formulations where it plays a pivotal role in helping the ingredients mix. Besides, it aids the product bind during the tablet preparation process.
In addition, sodium stearate can also serve as a releasing agent. This means that it helps drugs deliver pharmacological effects at intended time and location in the body.
In the industrial niche, sodium stearate is used in a number of lubricant applications. For instance, in manufacturing processes that involve metals, the sodium stearate helps to reduce friction and thus enhance efficiency.
Moreover, it is also used in making candles; where it enables the wax to have a more even appearance and thus increases the end product's quality. Apart from that, it also manages the consistency of the wax when it is melting.
Sodium stearate is a powerful release agent in the plastics and rubber industries. It makes sure that products like rubber tires and plastics molds do not stick to their respective molds during synthesis process.
That aside, it's commonly added to synthetic resins where it acts as an anti-adhesive agent. This further cements its versatility and efficacy.
Here are some of the benefits of using sodium stearate:
Sodium stearate is highly gentle and friendly to skin. For this reason, it has been largely adopted in lotions and creams where it moisturizes, smoothens, and hydrates skin as well.
On top of that, it has very minimal or rather negligible side effects consequently making it ideal for sensitive skin. This property substantially reduces irritations or rashes.
Sodium stearate helps a lot in stabilizing cosmetic formulations. This means that its inclusion in creams and lotions makes sure that the ingredients do not separate over time.
This greatly helps enhance product effectiveness and also prolongs shelf life. Henceforth, this guarantees users get the intended benefits as the product has a longer life span.
Applying sodium stearate in personal care products improves the products' spreadability on skin. Therefore, when users apply these products, they get smooth and even application.
This property improves their experience and thus encourages users to purchase more products, especially those with ⌈sodium stearate. Moreover, it increases the adoption rate among different users.
The sodium stearate included in shaving foams and creams provides users with better lubrication during shaving. Thus, it makes the razor glide smoothly and comfortably across the skin.
Consequently, it reduces irritation and razor burns. This, therefore, makes the product a must-have for clients who are tired of constant discomfort after shaving.
Sodium stearate can be found in a number of industries apart from cosmetics alone. For instance, it is used in pharmaceutical products, industrial application, and personal care products as well. This property makes it highly versatile.
Thus, it can be found in numerous products because of its multi-functional benefits. In addition, it can be used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. These various functions make sodium stearate indispensable in heterogeneous products and diverse applications.
Even though sodium stearate is predominantly deemed safe for use, there are a few precautionary measures that should be observed to avoid possible negative side effects. In addition, some people may experience sensitivity or adverse effects when using sodium stearate.
Even though rare, sodium stearate may still cause allergic reactions in small number of people. Such reactions can manifest themselves as rashes, hives, or irritations. In this case, it is important that users do a patch test before applying products containing sodium stearate on wider skin areas.
Sodium stearate is typically found in lotions, creams, and foams, but it can cause eye irritation if these products accidentally come into contact with eyes. In addition, users should wash their hands thoroughly after using these products to avoid transferring them to the eyes.
Users must avoid inhaling sodium stearate particles. This is particularly when it is in powder form. Such avoidance is necessary because inhalation of any powder particles may cause respiratory irritation or adverse effects.
To avoid such occurrences, it is advisable to wear a mask and protective gear when handling sodium stearate powder in large quantities, especially in industrial settings.
Sodium stearate is hypoallergenic and predominantly safe when applied topically in creams, lotions, and other products. However, it can still be mildly toxic when ingested. Regardless of the low risk of side effects, it is always critical to keep sodium stearate products out of reach of children and pets.
Moreover, medical assistance should be sought immediately in case of accidental ingestion.
When purchasing sodium stearate, buyers should consider a few things to ensure they source the right product for their clients. Here are some tips:
Buyers should get sodium stearate in distinct grades to use in different applications. For instance, pharmaceutical or cosmetic grade sodium stearate should be pure and refined without any impurities. At the same time, industrial grade can have slight variations and might contain additives.
To get quality products, buyers should buy from reputable suppliers who have positive reviews. They should also get the chemical's safety data sheet. This document usually contains information on the chemical's handling, storage, and potential hazards.
In some cases, businesses may require sodium stearate with unique characteristics. For instance, customized bulk sodium stearate may be needed with distinct granule sizes, purities, or additives. Buyers should look for suppliers who can offer such services without compromising on quality.
Before placing a bulk order, buyers should test samples of sodium stearate before ordering it in large batches. They should also ensure the chemical has been manufactured following the right regulatory standards.
A1.Yes. Sodium stearate is common in a variety of industries including cosmetics and personal care products. Therefore, it can also be found in gluten-free products. That is to say, it is not derived from wheat or any gluten-containing grains. No evidence suggests it can cause adverse effects to people with gluten allergies or celiac disease.
A2.Sodium stearate does not have any particular expiration date or shelf life. Nevertheless, the shelf-life depends on the quantity of exposure to moisture and its storage conditions. When stored in dry, cool, and airtight containers, sodium stearate can last for many years without losing potency.
A3.Using personal care products that contain sodium stearate is usually safe even for long-term use. Since it is hypoallergenic, gentle, and skin-compatible, most people don't experience any negative effects or irritations.
A4.Since sodium stearate can be derived from both plants and animals, it makes it both vegan and non-vegan-friendly. However, the most commonly used sodium stearate is from palm oil or vegetable fats like sunflower oil. This makes it ideal for customers who prefer plant-based products.
A5.In an industrial setting, sodium stearate should be stored in dry and cool areas. Also, it should be kept in airtight containers to avoid moisture exposure. Furthermore, it should be handled with protective gear to avoid skin contact and inhalation.