What Is Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate?
Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate is a lab made compound that blends a mineral base with a fatty acid-derived side chain. In simple terms it pairs aluminum with a modified form of glycerin and phosphoric acid, then attaches an isostearyl group that comes from isostearic acid, a fat that can be sourced from vegetable oils. The result is a powdery to pasty substance that mixes well into creams and lotions.
The ingredient was first explored in the late 1990s when formulators were looking for alternatives to heavy waxes that could still give products a smooth, cushiony feel. As skin care moved toward lighter textures, chemists found that linking aluminum with fatty phosphate groups created a stable thickener that resisted separation and kept products looking fresh on store shelves.
Production starts with glycerin that is reacted with isostearic acid to form isostearyl glyceryl. This piece is then bonded to phosphoric acid, and finally combined with aluminum salts. Each step takes place in controlled reactors to keep impurities low. The finished material is filtered, dried, and milled to a fine powder ready for cosmetic use.
You will spot Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate most often in facial moisturizers, sunscreens, BB creams, liquid foundations, eye creams, and rinse-off masks. Brands like it because it keeps oils and water from separating, lets them dial in a silkier texture, and helps pigments stay evenly dispersed.
Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays a supporting role that makes many formulas feel better and last longer on the skin.
Its key function is viscosity controlling. By thickening the oil and water phases at the same time, it gives lotions and creams a smooth, cushy consistency without making them greasy. This stable texture means the product spreads evenly, holds pigments in place, and maintains its feel over time even if the weather is hot or cold.
Who Can Use Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate
Because it is a mild, oil-compatible thickener that sits on the surface rather than penetrating deeply, Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate is generally suitable for dry, normal, combination and even sensitive skin. Oily or acne-prone skin types can usually tolerate it as well since it delivers texture without heavy occlusion, though those who react poorly to fatty esters may prefer lighter formulas.
The ingredient is made from vegetable-derived isostearic acid combined with mineral aluminum, so it is considered acceptable for both vegetarians and vegans. No animal by-products are used in its standard manufacturing process.
Current safety data show no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear all skincare products with a healthcare professional to be on the safe side.
Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with common actives such as retinoids, vitamin C or AHAs.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from one person to another. The following list covers potential side effects of Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate but these outcomes are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in finished products.
- Mild redness or irritation on very sensitive skin
- Transient stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare clogged pores in individuals highly prone to comedones
- Allergic contact dermatitis in those with a specific aluminum or phosphate allergy
If any irritation or unexpected reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate earns a low score because its large, bulky structure tends to remain on the skin surface and it is typically used at small percentages that do not create an occlusive film. Most reports and formulation data show little tendency to clog pores.
That makes it generally acceptable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, although overall formula composition and individual skin response still matter.
As with any fatty-derived helper ingredient, the final product’s oil blend and usage level will influence the real-world risk of congestion, so results can vary between different creams and makeup bases.
Summary
Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate is mainly a viscosity controller that strengthens emulsions, keeps oil and water phases from separating and lends a silky, cushiony feel while helping pigments stay evenly dispersed. It does this by anchoring its fatty tail in the oil phase while its phosphate-aluminum head interacts with water, forming a stable network that thickens both phases at once.
The ingredient enjoys modest popularity. It is prized in certain lightweight moisturizers, sunscreens and BB creams but competes with more familiar thickeners like carbomers and xanthan gum, so it is not yet a household name.
Current research and industry reviews rate it as low risk for irritation or sensitization when used at normal cosmetic levels. Still, everyone’s skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product containing Aluminum Isostearyl Glyceryl Phosphate before incorporating it fully into a routine.