1. Pharmaceuticals 

• Lubricant in tablet and capsule formulations: Magnesium stearate is used during tablet manufacturing to prevent ingredients from sticking to equipment, such as punches and dies, ensuring smooth production.
• Flow agent in powders: It enhances the flowability of powders during blending and compression, improving dosage uniformity and consistency of tablets or capsules.
• Tablet disintegration modifier: While primarily a lubricant, it can affect disintegration time; its hydrophobic nature can slow water penetration, which manufacturers must adjust for when optimizing release profiles.
• Excipient in vitamin and supplement tablets: Magnesium stearate is frequently used in multivitamin tablets and herbal supplements to aid in processing and maintain tablet integrity.
• Anti-caking agent: Prevents powders (e.g., protein blends, supplements) from clumping together by creating a dry coating on particles, improving texture and shelf stability.

2. Food & Healthcare Ingredient 

• Food-grade anti-caking agent: Approved in many regions, it is used in spices, powdered drink mixes, and baking powders to prevent clumping and enhance product flow.
• Tablet and candy processing aid: In compressed food products, like mints or chewable tablets, it acts as a processing lubricant, ensuring efficient, uniform shaping.

3. Personal Care 

• Binding agent in pressed powders: Used in makeup formulations (e.g., eyeshadows, blushes) to help powders compress easily and adhere well to skin.
• Texture enhancer in creams and lotions: Improves the smoothness and spreadability of creams and emulsions while also helping to stabilize formulations.