Science
Mechanism of Action
As an emollient, Glyceryl Behenate creates a non-occlusive film on the skin's surface, effectively reducing transepidermal water loss and preserving skin softness. It stabilizes emulsions by lowering interfacial tension between oil and water phases, ensuring uniform dispersion. Furthermore, it functions as a thickening agent, imparting desirable consistency to products and improving their spreadability and smoothness.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidence15%
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
No data available to suggest this ingredient is commonly dusted or has specific dusting thresholds.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Glyceryl Behenate is chemically stable under typical ambient conditions, ideally stored below 35°C in a tightly sealed container. It is highly lipophilic and insoluble in water, exhibiting excellent compatibility with other oils and waxes. It melts between approximately 65-80°C and is typically incorporated into the oil phase of emulsions to enhance richness, body, viscosity, and overall emulsion stability.
Synergies
- Oils
- Waxes
Safety
Safety Profile
Glyceryl Behenate is generally recognized as a safe cosmetic ingredient, demonstrating low irritancy to skin and eyes. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has classified it as 'safe with restrictions,' indicating potential limitations on its use, concentration, or manufacturing processes in cosmetics. It is also listed in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Guide and holds GRAS status for food use. While one reference from EWG cited a strong irritant claim, this appears to be an outlier, with numerous other sources confirming its non-irritating nature. Cosmetic applications typically utilize concentrations between 2% and 10%, though specific viscosity-modifying roles in silicone gels can extend to 15.0%.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Glyceryl Behenate is a valuable ingredient, enhancing skin comfort through its emollient properties and significantly improving formulation elegance, stability, and texture across all skin types with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity.
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References
Sources