Stearic Acid

Stearic acid is an 18-carbon saturated fatty acid. With Oleic Acid, it makes up most of the triglycerides in Shea Butter, which is why shea is solid at room temperature. Sivapiromrat 2021 cites earlier work reporting that the linoleic, stearic and oleic acids in shea “promote the epidermal permeability barrier”. This claim comes from laboratory work and has not been tested in toddler eczema. Being saturated, stearic acid does not carry the barrier-damaging reputation of oleic acid (see Olive Oil).

Connections

• Shea Butter — main saturated fatty acid, source: Sivapiromrat 2021
• Oleic Acid — co-dominant fatty acid in shea, source: Sivapiromrat 2021