C14-18 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate

C14-18 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate is a synthetic fatty ester made from C14-C18 alcohols and 2-ethylhexanoic acid used in cosmetics. It's chosen to deliver a light, non-greasy emollient feel, smooth slip, and easy spread in creams, lotions, and sunscreens.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A lightweight ester that softens skin without a greasy feel.
Category
Barrier Support, Skin Conditioning
Type
Emollient

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

Low

Skin Benefits

Leaves skin soft with a quick, dry-touch finish that avoids heaviness, and supports a supple feel by reducing perceived greasiness without masking skin's natural finish.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in moisturizers, sunscreens, primers, and fluid foundations to improve spreadability and impart a silky application.

Comedogenic Rating

C14-18 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate has a comedogenic rating of 1. It has a very low likelihood of clogging pores.

Safety

Generally low risk of irritation; patch test if very sensitive. Rare users may notice transient redness from emollient-rich formulas. No common regulatory restrictions at normal use levels.

Is C14-18 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate a Good Ingredient?

This reliable ester emollient boosts slip and light afterfeel without heaviness, which warrants a Good rating; it's typically stable and well tolerated across skin types.