INCI · emollient · CIR review pending · used in 8 products
Behenyl Alcohol
Behenyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol with a long, 22-carbon oil-loving chain (IUPAC name: Docosan-1-ol, CAS# 661-19-8). It belongs to the non-drying type of fatty alcohols, distinguishing it from short-chain alcohols that can be drying or irritating. It is used in cosmetic formulations primarily to increase viscosity and to stabilize emulsions by helping the oily and watery phases remain evenly mixed.
Evidence level
moderateEWG score
—Comedogenic
—Category
emollient● Benefits
Behenyl Alcohol functions as an emollient, contributing to a smoother skin feel, while also acting as a viscosity controller and emulsion stabilizer to improve formula texture and stability. Its long carbon chain makes it non-drying, unlike shorter-chain alcohols.
hydratingbarrier-supportemulsion-stabilizing
● Cautions
