

Glycerol Monostearate (GMS) | CAS 31566-31-1 | Cosmetic-Grade Emulsifier
Order(MOQ) :
500kgsProduct Origin :
ChinaColor :
Cream white to light yellowShipping Port :
Shanghai, ChinaLead Time :
2-3 weeksWeight :
25kgCas No. :
31566-31-1Molecular Formula :
C₂₁H₄₂O₄Appearance :
Cream white or light yellow waxy solidApplication :
Cosmetics & personal care (emulsifier, emollient, thickener); food and pharmaceutical grades available
Glycerol Monostearate (GMS, INCI Name: Glyceryl Stearate, CAS 31566-31-1) is a non-ionic emulsifier produced by the esterification of glycerin with stearic acid. It is supplied as a cream white or light yellow waxy solid with a characteristic mild fatty odor.
With its balanced hydrophilic–lipophilic profile, GMS is one of the most widely used emulsifiers in cosmetic formulations. It stabilizes oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, imparts a smooth, velvety skin feel, and acts as an opacifier and bodying agent in creams, lotions, shampoos and conditioners.
Our cosmetic-grade GMS is manufactured under strict quality control. Every batch is tested against clear specifications — appearance, free glycerol, acid value, iodine value and color (Hazen) — and is shipped with a certificate of analysis (COA) for full traceability.
As a professional source manufacturer, we provide stable bulk supply, consistent quality and competitive factory prices to customers worldwide.
Core Advantages
1. Proven Emulsifying Performance
GMS delivers reliable O/W emulsification and emulsion stabilization at low use levels, making it a cornerstone ingredient of classic cream and lotion systems.
2. Mild and Skin-Friendly
As a non-ionic emulsifier, GMS is mild, low-irritation and compatible with a wide range of actives, suitable for daily skincare and baby-care formulations.
3. Versatile Multifunction
Beyond emulsification, GMS thickens, opacifies, improves spreadability and leaves a soft, non-greasy after-feel on the skin.
4. Consistent Quality with Full Documentation
Tight control of free glycerol, acid value, iodine value and color, with a COA available for every batch.
Technical Specifications
|
Item |
Specification (Standard) |
Typical Result (per COA) |
|
Product Name |
Glycerol Mono Stearate (GMS) |
— |
|
INCI Name |
Glyceryl Stearate |
— |
|
CAS Number |
31566-31-1 |
Key identifier |
|
Molecular Formula |
C₂₁H₄₂O₄ |
— |
|
Appearance |
Cream white or light yellow waxy solid |
Conforms |
|
Free Glycerol (%) |
≤ 7.0 |
≤ 6.0 |
|
Acid Value (mg KOH/g) |
≤ 5.0 |
0.5 |
|
Iodine Value (g/100g) |
≤ 1.5 |
0.77 |
|
Color (Hazen) |
Yellow ≤ 50; Red ≤ 5.0 |
Yellow 30; Red 3.0 |
Key Application
Creams, lotions, body butters, sunscreens and cold creams, where GMS stabilizes the emulsion and delivers a smooth, velvety texture.
Shampoos, conditioners and styling products, used as a conditioner, opacifier and viscosity builder.
Foundations, lipsticks and mascaras, where it improves texture, pigment wetting and product stability.
Toothpaste and shaving products, as a mild emulsifier and consistency regulator.
As a pharmaceutical excipient in ointments and emulsions, and as a food emulsifier (E471) in processed foods; food-grade GMS is available on request.
FAQ:
Q1: What is Glycerol Monostearate (GMS)?
GMS (INCI: Glyceryl Stearate, CAS 31566-31-1) is a non-ionic emulsifier produced by esterifying glycerin with stearic acid. It is a cream white or light yellow waxy solid widely used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions in cosmetics and personal care products.
Q2: What is the minimum order quantity?
Our standard minimum order quantity (MOQ) is 500 kg. Sample orders and larger bulk orders are both welcome — please contact our sales team for pricing and lead times.
Q3: What specifications do you guarantee?
Every batch is tested for appearance, free glycerol (≤ 7.0%), acid value (≤ 5.0 mg KOH/g), iodine value (≤ 1.5 g/100g) and color (Hazen), and a COA is provided with every shipment.
Q4: What are the main applications of GMS?
GMS is used as an emulsifier, emollient, thickener and opacifier in skin care creams and lotions, hair care, makeup, oral care and pharmaceutical ointments. Food-grade GMS (E471) is also available.
Q5: How should GMS be stored?
Store in a cool, dry place in sealed original packaging, away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. Under proper storage conditions the product maintains its specification for 24 months from the date of manufacture.
Q6: Do you provide samples and custom services?
Yes. As a professional source manufacturer we provide samples, customized packaging and specifications, and full COA/MSDS documentation, with stable bulk supply for global customer .
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