Tridecyl Trimellitate

Tridecyl trimellitate is a branched ester of trimellitic acid and tridecyl alcohol used as a lightweight cosmetic emollient. Lip and skin products use it to add cushion and slip, form a soft barrier that slows moisture loss, and improve spread.
Like this ingredient?

Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A lightweight oil that cushions skin and helps it hold moisture.
Category
Skin Conditioning, Barrier Support, Hydration
Type
Emollient

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable while helping it stay hydrated without a greasy afterfeel, and keeps lips and skin from feeling tight with a smooth, supple finish.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often included in lipsticks, balms, and glosses for a plush feel, and in face creams or body lotions to boost a velvety texture, plus foundations to improve glide during application.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Generally considered low irritation, with uncommon sensitivity reports. Suitable for lip and skin products as formulated; no notable regulatory limitations.

Is Tridecyl Trimellitate a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good as a lightweight ester emollient that boosts slip and cushions the skin barrier with a soft, non-greasy finish. It's stable and typically low in irritation, but the benefits are mainly textural rather than clinically proven skin improvements.

Products with Tridecyl Trimellitate

Related Ingredients