Behenyl Alcohol

Good

Texture enhancer

Behenyl Alcohol at a glance

  • Is considered a fatty, non-drying form of alcohol
  • Is used as a thickener and moisturising ingredient in cosmetics
  • Also known as 1-docosanol
  • Has been ruled safe as used in cosmetics

Behenyl Alcohol description

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 moisturizing 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.

Behenyl Alcohol references

  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2017, pages 206-216
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2014, pages 77-142
  • Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy, March 2010, Volume 11, pages 853-860
  • Journal of the American College of Toxicology, 1988, pages 1-55
  • CosmeticsInfo.org, ePublication

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.