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Safety Assessment of Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Poly(3-Hydroxyoctanoic Acid), and Polylactic Acid as Used in Cosmetics
Preethi S Raj1, Wilma F Bergfeld2, Donald V Belsito2
1Cosmetic Ingredient Review Former Senior Scientific Analyst/Writer.
International Journal of Toxicology
|July 24, 2026
Summary
The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety found Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Poly(3-Hydroxyoctanoic Acid), and Polylactic Acid to be safe for cosmetic use. These ingredients function as dispersing, skin-conditioning, and abrasive agents, respectively.
Area of Science:
- Cosmetic Science
- Dermatology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Cosmetic ingredients require rigorous safety assessments.
- Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Poly(3-Hydroxyoctanoic Acid), and Polylactic Acid are used in various cosmetic functions.
- Understanding the safety profiles of these cosmetic ingredients is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety of Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Poly(3-Hydroxyoctanoic Acid), and Polylactic Acid in cosmetic products.
- To determine the safety of these ingredients based on current usage practices and concentrations.
- To provide a comprehensive safety assessment for cosmetic formulators and consumers.
Main Methods:
- Review of available scientific data and literature.
- Assessment of toxicological profiles.
- Evaluation of ingredient function and application in cosmetic formulations.
Main Results:
- Polyhydroxystearic Acid functions as a non-surfactant dispersing agent.
- Poly(3-Hydroxyoctanoic Acid) acts as a skin-conditioning agent.
- Polylactic Acid is utilized as an abrasive agent.
Conclusions:
- The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety concluded these ingredients are safe.
- Safety is affirmed under current cosmetic practices and concentrations.
- These findings support the continued use of these ingredients in the cosmetic industry.
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