Stearic Fatty Acids

Stearic acid is found in various animal and plant fats, and is a major component of cocoa butter and shea butter. Also called octadecanoic acid, this compound is one of the many useful types of saturated fatty acids that occurs naturally in various plants and animal derivatives. When used in cosmetic products, stearic acid primarily fulfills the role of a thickener or hardener. This substance also helps objects such as bars of soap, candles, oil pastels and hard candies retain their shapes.