Ingredient · Updated
Octyldodecanol
Found in 9 productsSee all
W3LL People Expressionist Volumizing Mascara 
W3LL People Expressionist Lengthening Mascara 
W3LL People Lip Butter SPF 15 Tinted Balm 
Monika Blunder Beauty Dew Better Face Oil 
Monika Blunder Beauty Blunder Cover Foundation + Concealer 
OSEA Anti-Aging Body Balm - Ulta Beauty 
Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion for Very Dry Skin Bottle 
W3LL People Lush Lip Tinted Oil What is Octyldodecanol?
Octyldodecanol is a fatty alcohol used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is derived from natural oils, such as coconut, and is often synthesized to meet commercial demands. Its non-greasy texture and emollient properties make it popular in formulations.
Typically, octyldodecanol is used as a skin conditioning agent that helps improve the texture and spreadability of products like lipsticks and creams. The current body of research indicates it is generally well-tolerated by the skin, with few reports of irritation or allergic reactions.
When you see octyldodecanol on a label, it usually indicates a focus on product texture and moisturizing properties. It is not considered an active ingredient in terms of therapeutic or biological activity.
Commonly found in: Lip Balm, Lipstick, Foundation, Moisturizer
Benefits
- Acts as an emollient, helping to soften and smooth the skin.
- Improves the texture and application of cosmetic products.
Octyldodecanol is permitted for use in cosmetics and personal care products without specific restrictions.
Research shows that octyldodecanol is generally safe with low irritancy potential in skincare products.
Octyldodecanol is typically plant-derived, making it suitable for vegans.
Sources: Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, Safety of Octyldodecanol · Final Report On the Safety Assessment of Cetyl Alcohol, Lauryl Alcohol, Myristyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, C30-50 Alcohols, and Behenyl Alcohol
Scout's take
Octyldodecanol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and emulsifier. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of the product. It is generally considered safe with no significant benefits or risks.
The case against
It is generally considered safe, but in rare cases, it may cause skin irritation.
from the analysis of OSEA Anti-Aging Body Balm - Ulta BeautyThere are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
from the analysis of Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion for Very Dry Skin BottleRarely, it may cause mild irritation in sensitive skin types.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Blunder Cover Foundation + ConcealerGenerally considered safe with low risk of irritation.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Dew Better Face OilThe case for
It enhances the texture of formulations and provides a moisturizing effect.
from the analysis of OSEA Anti-Aging Body Balm - Ulta BeautyOctyldodecanol helps improve the texture and application of the lotion.
from the analysis of Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion for Very Dry Skin BottleIt enhances the texture and feel of cosmetic formulations.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Blunder Cover Foundation + ConcealerIt improves the texture and spreadability of the product.
from the analysis of Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm Treatment for Hydration + Nourishing Shine, Size:, Sweet GreenEnhances product texture and spreadability.
from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Dew Better Face OilMore from Scout's analyses
Benign functional ingredient — low toxicity concern.
from the analysis of W3LL People Expressionist Volumizing MascaraAll 9 products with Octyldodecanol
Where Octyldodecanol shows up
- Makeup 3 products
- Lip Care 3 products
- Body Lotion 2 products
- Skin Care 1 product
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