What it is
Octyldodecanol, a long-chain fatty alcohol, is a clear liquid.
What it does
Octyldodecanol is very used in moisturizers and lotions for two reasons. Its emollient and lubricating properties give skin a soft feel. In addition, it helps to form emulsions and prevents the oil and liquid components of a product’s formula from separating.
It also acts as an anti-foaming agent, helping reduce the tendency of products to produce foam when they are shaken.
It is also rarely used as a solvent and fragrance ingredient.
Side effects
Octyldodecanol can cause irritations, but it’s rare.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Thanks for the information Gio. As for the irritaions, does that apply on the amount of Octyldodecanol or does it not matter?
.-= Dee´s last blog ..Release The Frustration. + Revlon Double Twist Mascara Review =-.
Dee, you’re welcome. It depends on the amount too. Usually Octydodecanol is used in very small concentrations in cosmetics and skincare products so it shouldn’t be irritating. But if one is very sensitive to the ingredient I guess even small concentrations may be enough to irritate skin. But that is really rare.
I am applying Clotrimazole USP, 1 % to my split corners of my mouth. Now I have red itchy bumps on my chin. I am highly allergic to Vit E on my skin, but could the Octyldodecano ingredient be aggravating my skin. I am not sure if the Clotrimazole has vit. E in it.
Hi Beverly. Well, that’s hard to say. Everyone’s skin is different and each ingredient in any product could potentially cause an irritation to someone. If you have used products with Octydodecanol before and they didn’t give you problems, it’s unlikely that’s the cause. If, on the other hand, this is your first time using Octydodecanol, that’s what could be aggravating your condition. But unless you consult a dermatologist there’s no way to know for sure. Clotrimazole USP, 1 % shouldn’t contain any Vitamin E, though.
Is Octyldodecanol derived from beeswax
Sharn, it can be derived from beeswax esters, yes.