What Is Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate?
Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate is a plant-derived amino acid (glutamic acid) that has been bonded with stearic acid, a fatty acid found in vegetable oils, and then neutralized with a small amount of aluminum. The result is a fine, off-white powder that acts as a gentle skin helper and texture enhancer in many topical products.
The ingredient first gained popularity in the 1990s when formulators looked for more skin-friendly alternatives to heavier waxes and synthetic thickening agents. By combining naturally sourced building blocks with a trace mineral, chemists created a compound that spreads easily, feels light on the skin and helps other ingredients mix smoothly.
To make Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate, manufacturers start with fermented or plant-derived glutamic acid, attach a stearic acid “tail” through an amidation reaction, then introduce aluminum salts to form the final stable powder. This process takes place under controlled temperatures to protect the delicate amino acid structure.
You will often spot Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate in day and night creams, lightweight moisturizers, lotion-type sunscreens, foundation and BB creams, sheet masks and other leave-on treatments aimed at softening and conditioning the skin.
Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In a formula this ingredient pulls double duty, offering the following perks
- Moisturising – helps skin hold onto water by forming a light, breathable film that slows surface moisture loss, leaving the complexion soft and supple
- Skin Conditioning – smooths rough patches, improves product slip and gives creams a silky feel that enhances overall application comfort
Who Can Use Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate
Because it is lightweight and non occlusive, Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate suits most skin types including normal, dry, combination, sensitive and even oily skin that dislikes heavy creams. Extremely acne prone users who react to fatty acids should monitor how their skin responds, though the ingredient itself has a low tendency to clog pores when used in balanced formulas.
The compound is generally considered vegan and vegetarian friendly as the glutamic acid is fermented from plants and the stearic acid is usually sourced from vegetable oils; no animal by products are needed. Those following a strict lifestyle may still want to confirm a brand’s raw material source.
No warnings have been issued for pregnant or breastfeeding women regarding topical use of Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate. Current safety reviews show low absorption through intact skin, so routine cosmetic levels are not expected to affect mother or baby. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before starting any new skincare product to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity and can be used morning or night without making skin more vulnerable to sunburn. It also plays well with common actives such as vitamin C, niacinamide and most sunscreen filters, so layering concerns are minimal.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate differ from person to person. The points below list potential issues; in well formulated products most users will not encounter them.
- Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to aluminum compounds
- Temporary pore congestion if the finished product is overly rich for the user’s skin type
- Eye irritation or watering if a cream containing the ingredient migrates into the eye area
If any of the above reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate is used at low levels and has a feather-light texture that does not stay on the skin’s surface long enough to block pores. The stearic portion is balanced by the amino acid portion, which lessens any heavy or waxy feel, so the likelihood of clogging is minimal. This makes it generally safe for those prone to acne or breakouts. Only when combined with richer oils or butters in a finished formula might the overall product become pore clogging.
Summary
Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate works as a moisturiser and skin conditioner by forming a breathable film that slows water loss while smoothing rough spots and improving product glide. Its lightweight nature lets creams feel silky rather than greasy, which is why formulators still rely on it in modern lotions, sunscreens and makeup bases.
The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity: it is not as famous as hyaluronic acid yet shows up in many well-loved products because it is dependable, plant derived and versatile.
Current safety data rates it low risk with little skin penetration and few reported reactions. Still, everyone’s skin is unique, so it is smart to patch test any new product containing Aluminum Stearoyl Glutamate before full use.