Polyhydroxystearic Acid

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Emulsifier 8/10 Safety CG ApprovedClean Semi-synthetic Vegan

What Is Polyhydroxystearic Acid?

A polymeric emulsifier derived from hydroxystearic acid (castor oil derivative). It is used to stabilize water-in-oil emulsions and disperse mineral pigments in hair products.

Source: Castor oil derivative (polymerized)

Origin: Semi-synthetic

Also known as: PHSA

What Does Polyhydroxystearic Acid Do to Your Hair?

Stabilizes water-in-oil emulsions and helps disperse mineral particles evenly in formulations. Creates stable, elegant product textures. Used in formulating mineral-based products and heavy conditioning treatments.

Best For

All hair types (functional ingredient)

Not Recommended For

None known

Concentration Matters

1-5% in products

Hair Type Compatibility

1A Straight Fine
1B Straight Medium
1C Straight Coarse
2A Wavy Fine
2B Wavy Medium
2C Wavy Coarse
3A Curly Loose
3B Curly Tight
3C Curly Corkscrew
4A Coily S-Shaped
4B Coily Z-Shaped
4C Coily Tight

Method Compatibility

Curly Girl (CG) Method: Approved
CG Approved

Safety & Regulation

8/10
AvoidCautionSafe

Very safe for cosmetic use. Derived from castor oil. Non-toxic, non-irritating. Has been thoroughly evaluated by the CIR expert panel and found safe as used in cosmetics.

FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe

FDA permits use in cosmetics without restrictions.

EWG Score: 1/10

HairAide Verdict

A safe, functional emulsifier that helps create stable product formulations. Nothing remarkable or concerning. Does its job effectively behind the scenes.

Products That Contain Polyhydroxystearic Acid

Hair treatments, heavy conditioners, mineral-containing products, styling products

Alternatives to Polyhydroxystearic Acid

If you want to avoid Polyhydroxystearic Acid, look for products with these ingredients instead:

Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Oleate, other emulsifiers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Polyhydroxystearic Acid safe for hair?

Yes, Polyhydroxystearic Acid has a safety rating of 8/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Very safe for cosmetic use. Derived from castor oil. Non-toxic, non-irritating. Has been thoroughly evaluated by the CIR expert panel and found safe as used in cosmetics.

Is Polyhydroxystearic Acid bad for curly hair?

Polyhydroxystearic Acid is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.

Is Polyhydroxystearic Acid CG-method approved?

Yes, Polyhydroxystearic Acid is approved for the Curly Girl method.

What can I use instead of Polyhydroxystearic Acid?

Some alternatives to Polyhydroxystearic Acid include: Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Oleate, other emulsifiers

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