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Moumoujus

2-OCTANOL.

Optional CAS 123-96-6 / PERFUMING

A secondary fatty alcohol derived from castor oil that serves multiple functions in skincare formulations. This oil-soluble ingredient enhances skin penetration of active compounds while providing emollient properties and fragrance masking capabilities. Its ability to disrupt stratum corneum lipid organization makes it valuable for improving product efficacy.

Summary

solvent fragrance masking viscosity controlling penetration enhancer emollient

Science

Mechanism of Action

Disrupts the highly organized lipid bilayer structure of the stratum corneum, increasing membrane fluidity and facilitating deeper penetration of active ingredients. Simultaneously forms a thin occlusive film on skin surface to reduce transepidermal water loss while functioning as a low-volatility solvent for waxes and fats.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 3.6–5.4%
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated significant skin penetration enhancement properties, though less potent than 2-nonanol (Li and Chantasart, 2019)
  2. 02 Shown to contribute moisturizing and skin-softening benefits at 3.6-5.4% concentration in commercial Cica Method Cream formulation

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Primarily used as a functional ingredient rather than for marketing appeal, making dusting unlikely

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable under standard cosmetic storage conditions due to secondary alcohol structure being less reactive to oxidation than primary alcohols. Poor water solubility (1.12 g/L) but miscible with ethanol and organic solvents.

Synergies

  • Ethanol
  • Other organic solvents
  • Waxes and fats

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
1%
Sensitization risk Moderate

Generally considered safe when used within recommended concentrations. Pure form classified as skin and eye irritant (Category 2) under GHS, but safe at typical cosmetic usage levels.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Optional

A multifunctional ingredient that enhances product performance through penetration enhancement and emollient properties, though moderate irritancy limits use in sensitive skin formulations.

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