Glyceryl stearate/maleates (inci).

Mixture of various ester compounds between glycerol stearic acid and maleic acid, which in cosmetic applications as emollients has a relaxing and softening and smoothing effect on the skin. The smoothing effect increases the refraction of light on the skin. The skin also appears optically smoothed. The mixture also acts as an emulsifier.

Maleic acid derivatives have a certain sensitizing potential when applied locally.

The maleic acid derivative "Dimethindenmaleate" (Fenistil®) is a frequently used antihistamine.

1. Demirel F et al (2015) Allergic reaction to chlorpheniramine maleate. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 115:150-152.
2. Leroy A et al (2011) Contact dermatitis and secondary systemic allergy to dimethindene maleate. Contact dermatitis 64:170-171.
3. Matsuoka T et al (2016) Maleate and Dibutyl Fumarate Enhance Contact Sensitization to Fluorescein Isothiocyanates in Mice. Biol Pharm Bull 39:272-277.