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C12-13 ALKYL ETHYLHEXANOATE.

Valuable CAS - / SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

A lightweight synthetic ester that functions as both a skin-conditioning emollient and penetration enhancer. This versatile ingredient smooths skin texture while simultaneously improving the delivery of other active compounds through the stratum corneum barrier.

Emollient Skin conditioning agent Penetration enhancer Solubilizer

Science

Works by filling intercellular spaces to create a smooth skin surface while reducing transepidermal water loss. Additionally enhances the penetration of other actives by increasing their solubility within both the formulation and the lipid layers of the stratum corneum.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 1–22%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated significant enhancement of drug permeation through skin, with penetration rates directly correlating to increased solubility of test compounds in the ester vehicle

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

Not typically used in dusting concentrations as it serves functional roles as emollient and penetration enhancer at meaningful percentages


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 5.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Maintains stability under standard ambient conditions but undergoes hydrolysis at extreme pH levels, breaking down into constituent alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid

Synergies

  • UV filters (acts as solubilizer)
  • Other lipophilic actives

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids and bases
  • Extreme pH formulations

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
22%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

CIR Expert Panel concluded safety when formulated to be non-irritating, with related esters in this family approved at concentrations up to 77% in rinse-off products


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

A multifunctional ingredient that delivers both immediate skin conditioning benefits and enhanced delivery of other actives with excellent safety profile.


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