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Moumoujus

C16-17 ISOALCOHOLS.

Valuable CAS 93762-74-4 / 97592-76-2 / SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

A high-performance, branched fatty alcohol that serves as a lightweight emollient and structural stabilizer in precision skincare. It bridges the gap between effective moisture retention and a refined, non-greasy skin feel, making it an ideal choice for sophisticated textures.

Summary

emollient viscosity controlling skin conditioning co-emulsifier

Science

Mechanism of Action

C16-17 Isoalcohols function as lipophilic emollients that integrate into the skin's intercellular lipid matrix, filling gaps between corneocytes to smooth the surface texture. Due to their branched-chain structure, they possess a lower melting point than linear fatty alcohols, which allows for superior spreadability and the formation of a breathable, occlusive barrier that prevents trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) without a heavy residue.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations of branched fatty alcohols (such as LIAL 167) demonstrate high biocompatibility, confirming they are non-irritating and non-sensitizing while delivering a significantly lighter skin feel compared to traditional linear alcohols.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

Typically utilized between 1-5%, this ingredient is rarely 'dusted' as it serves a functional role in formula viscosity and texture; concentrations below 1% may indicate it is being used merely as a co-emulsifier rather than a primary emollient.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 3 – 11
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable across a broad pH spectrum due to its non-ionic nature; notably more resistant to oxidative rancidity than unsaturated fatty acids.

Synergies

  • Non-ionic surfactants
  • Linear fatty alcohols
  • Lipophilic active ingredients

Conflicts

  • High concentrations in O/W emulsions without balanced surfactants can destabilize rheological properties.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
5%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Recognized in the 2023 CIR safety assessment for long-chain aliphatic alcohols as having exceptionally low potential for irritation.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An excellent modern emollient that provides the occlusive benefits of fatty alcohols without the heavy, waxy finish of traditional linear alternatives.

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