Quick answer
Plant-derived or synthetically made ingredient that is sometimes used as a substitute for silicones; Imparts emollient, skin-softening properties without a greasy feel; Adds a pleasant slip to creams and lotions, making them easier to spread; Source of essential fatty acids for skin Key benefits: Hydration.
Ethyl Macadamiate
Updated
Fatty Acid, Macadamia Nut Oil, Et Esters
Purpose
This nut-derived ingredient softens and conditions skin, while also adding a smooth, spreadable glide to the formula.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Plant Extracts, Emollient, Emulsifier
INCI Purpose
SKIN CONDITIONING
Benefits
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Plant-derived or synthetically made ingredient that is sometimes used as a substitute for silicones
Imparts emollient, skin-softening properties without a greasy feel
Adds a pleasant slip to creams and lotions, making them easier to spread
Source of essential fatty acids for skin
Article
Ethyl macadamiate is the ester of ethyl alcohol mixed with fatty acids from macadamia nut oil to create an emollient. On skin, ethyl macadamiate softens and conditions plus helps prevent moisture loss.
This plant-derived or synthetically made ingredient is sometimes used as a substitute for silicones because it imparts emollient, skin-softening properties without the greasy feel higher amounts of some silicones can have.
Ethyl macadamiate also adds a pleasant slip to creams and lotions, making them easier to spread, not to mention macadamia nut oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids for skin.
You can find ethyl macadamiate in all kinds of cosmetic formulations including cleansing oils, moisturizers, sunscreens, and hair care products.
Amounts used in cosmetics may be as low as 0.1% in a cleanser to upwards of 30% in a non-aqueous serum or moisturizer. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel has deemed macadamia nut oil safe as used in cosmetics; the ethyl alcohol portion isn’t considered a risk since it does not retain its original properties when esterified with oil to form ethyl macadamiate.
See: Macadamia Nut Oil
References