Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle

BUTYLOCTANOIC ACID.

Valuable CAS 27610-92-0 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

A branched-chain fatty acid that serves dual functions as an antimicrobial agent and emollient surfactant. This versatile ingredient selectively targets odor-causing bacteria while providing formulation stability and a pleasant skin feel. Its unique molecular structure allows it to work effectively across various pH ranges and skin types.

antimicrobial emollient surfactant emulsifier

Science

Functions through selective antimicrobial action against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Corynebacterium xerosis bacteria, while simultaneously acting as a branched-chain fatty acid emollient that provides medium-spreading properties and enhances formulation stability through surfactant and emulsifying actions.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–1%
Optimal

0.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Trier Social Stress Test on 40 adolescents showed 30% reduction in stress-induced axillary malodor in males and 22% in females at 0.1-1.0% concentration with concurrent bacterial growth suppression

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Not commonly used in dusting practices due to specialized antimicrobial function and typical sub-1% usage concentrations in finished products.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4.5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable branched-chain fatty acid with pKa of approximately 4.82. Maintains stability at room temperature when stored in dry, well-ventilated conditions.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Low

CIR Expert Panel assessed as part of 102 fatty acids group in 2019, concluding safety when formulated to be non-irritating. Industrial formulations reach 10% but cosmetic applications typically remain below 1%.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

A well-researched multifunctional ingredient offering proven antimicrobial efficacy with excellent safety profile and broad skin type compatibility.


Related

Finding similar ingredients…


References