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

C9-11 ALCOHOLS.

Valuable CAS 66455-17-2 / EMULSION STABILISING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

A refined blend of synthetic fatty alcohols that serves as a multi-functional stabilizer and texture enhancer in precision skincare. It acts as both a protective emollient and a secondary emulsifier to ensure formula uniformity and a smooth application experience.

Summary

emollient emulsifying surfactant viscosity controlling

Science

Mechanism of Action

These alcohols function by creating a lightweight, breathable occlusive barrier on the skin's surface, effectively sealing in moisture and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Furthermore, they reduce the surface tension between the oil and water phases of an emulsion, which improves product spreadability and prevents formula separation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 Safety assessments by the CIR indicate that long-chain fatty alcohols in the C9-11 range demonstrate minimal irritation in dermal models, with human trials confirming they are non-sensitizing at standard cosmetic concentrations.
  2. 02 HERA risk evaluations established a systemic No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of 180 mg/kg bw/day for derivatives of these alcohols, reinforcing their safety profile for topical use.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

As a structural and stabilizing ingredient, C9-11 Alcohols are rarely 'dusted' for marketing purposes; they are typically included at functional levels (1-5%) to ensure the physical integrity of the emulsion.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 3.5 – 9.5
0 7 14

Stability

The ingredient is robust across most cosmetic pH levels but should not be exposed to extreme acidity (pH <3) or alkalinity (pH >11), which can trigger chemical dehydration.

Synergies

  • Non-ionic surfactants
  • Glycerin
  • Ceramides

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Peroxides
  • Highly concentrated mineral acids

Safety

Safety Profile

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

Unlike ethoxylated versions (Pareth), pure C9-11 Alcohols do not carry a risk of 1,4-dioxane contamination. They are highly tolerated by the skin barrier when formulated within the recommended 5% limit for leave-on products.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A reliable and safe stabilizing agent that provides essential emolliency and structural integrity to complex topical emulsions.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…