Sodium stearate is a vegetable-based soap material sourced from coconut and palm oils. It is often referred to as a sodium salt that comes from stearic acid, a fatty acid that occurs naturally.

Our Stewardship Model guides us to select ingredients which have been processed in a manner that supports our philosophy of human and environmental health.

Stearic acids may be derived from many sources. Tom’s of Maine derives it from coconut and palm oils. These oils can be split into glycerin and fatty acids, one of which is stearic acid. The stearic acid is isolated and then combined with sodium hydroxide in a saponification process to produce the soap ingredient called sodium stearate.

Sodium stearate has a long history of safe use in personal care products.

Tom’s of Maine recognizes that no two people are alike, and even with naturally derived ingredients, some individuals may develop an allergic reaction that is unique to them. As with any product, be sure to discontinue use if you experience discomfort or other indications that the product may not be appropriate for your individual body chemistry.