C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is a lightweight ester of benzoic acid and mid-chain alcohols used as a cosmetic emollient and solvent. It gives silky slip, quick absorption, and a non-greasy finish, improving spreadability in sunscreens, makeup, and daily skincare.
A lightweight ester that helps sunscreen and makeup spread evenly.
Category
Skin Conditioning
Type
Emollient
Ingredient Ratings
Overall Rating
Great
Comedogenic Risk
Low
Skin Benefits
Leaves skin soft with a quick, dry-touch feel that reduces heaviness, and improves glide so products spread evenly and feel less oily during wear.
Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics
Frequently added to sunscreens, primers, lightweight moisturizers, and fluid foundations to improve feel and wear, and also used in silky hair serums and body lotions.
Comedogenic Rating
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate has a comedogenic rating of 2. It has a low likelihood of clogging pores but may not suit all skin types.
Safety
Typically well tolerated with a low likelihood of irritation. Rare individuals may experience sensitivity to benzoate esters; discontinue if redness or discomfort occurs. Suitable for leave-on use at customary levels.
Is C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate a Good Ingredient?
This stable, lightweight ester has a strong track record for low irritation and excellent sensory improvement, which earns it a Great rating; it improves spreadability and uniform film formation across many formats without heaviness.