Tridecyl Salicylate

Tridecyl salicylate is an oil-soluble ester of salicylic acid and tridecyl alcohol used as an emollient in cosmetics. It's chosen to add slip and a soft finish, cut stickiness in blends, and improve the sensory feel of barrier-oriented formulas.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An oil-based conditioner that adds slip and a soft, non-sticky finish.
Category
Skin Conditioning, Barrier Support
Type
Emollient

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Leaves a silky, conditioned feel and cuts down on stickiness for more comfortable wear, and softens rough areas while improving glide without heaviness.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in moisturizers, primers, and lip balms to boost glide and a smooth finish, and also found in lightweight facial oils to refine texture.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally well tolerated and not equivalent to free salicylic acid in activity. Those sensitive to esters or salicylates should patch test before use.

Is Tridecyl Salicylate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good as an emollient ester that boosts slip and softness while reducing perceived tack. Its value lies in stability and sensory improvement rather than exfoliating action, since it doesn't behave like free salicylic acid on skin.

Products with Tridecyl Salicylate

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