Quick answer
Is considered a fatty, non-drying form of alcohol; Is used as a thickener and moisturizing ingredient in cosmetics; Also known as 1-docosanol; Has been ruled safe as used in cosmetics Key benefits: Hydration.
Behenyl Alcohol
Updated
Docosan-1-ol
Purpose
This fatty, non-drying alcohol enhances a product’s texture and helps its moisturizing capabilities. It’s been deemed safe as used in skin care.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Texture Enhancer, pH Adjuster/Stabilizer
INCI Purpose
BINDING, EMULSION STABILISING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING
Benefits
Alternative Names
Hair Profile
Functions
At a Glance
Is considered a fatty, non-drying form of alcohol
Is used as a thickener and moisturizing ingredient in cosmetics
Also known as 1-docosanol
Has been ruled safe as used in cosmetics
Article
Behenyl alcohol, also known as 1-docosanol, is a synthetic or plant-derived thickening agent and emulsifier used in cosmetics. It also serves as a hydrating ingredient. It’s considered a fatty alcohol not related to drying forms of alcohol. In its raw form it is a white, waxy solid.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has deemed behenyl alcohol to be safe for topical application as used in cosmetics.
See: Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Myristyl Alcohol
References