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Catalog Number | CI-GU-0119 |
Product Name | Behenic Acid |
CAS | 112-85-6 |
Structure | ![]() |
Synonyms | Docosanoic acid |
IUPAC Name | docosanoic acid |
Molecular Weight | 340.6 g/mol |
Molecular Formula | C22H44O2 |
InChI | InChI=1S/C22H44O2/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-18-19-20-21-22(23)24/h2-21H2,1H3,(H,23,24) |
InChI Key | UKMSUNONTOPOIO-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
Boiling Point | 306 °C / 60mmHg |
Melting Point | 72-80 °C |
Purity | 95% |
Appearance | Solid |
Highest Usage In Residency Products | 0.175 |
Isomeric SMILES | CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)O |
pKa | 4.78±0.10 |
What is Behenic Acid and how is it used in cosmetics?
Behenic Acid, also known as docosanoic acid, is a saturated fatty acid that serves as a thickener, opacifier, and cleansing agent in cosmetic formulations. It enhances texture and is used to create oil-gel textures that effectively remove excess oil and long-lasting makeup.
In what types of products can Behenic Acid be found?
Behenic Acid is versatile and can be found in both rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics. Its safe usage levels make it suitable for products like cleansers, lotions, and lipsticks, among others.
Is Behenic Acid safe for use on the skin?
Yes, Behenic Acid is considered safe for use on the skin, with concentrations in cosmetic products ranging from 0.024% to 22%. Even products such as lipsticks, which may be incidentally ingested, contain up to 14% of Behenic Acid and are deemed safe.
Why might Behenic Acid be chosen over stearic acid in formulations?
Behenic Acid is sometimes preferred over stearic acid when a different aesthetic is desired in the final product. Its texture-enhancing and opacifying properties make it a suitable alternative depending on the formulation needs.
What are the additional benefits of using Behenic Acid in skincare products?
Apart from its thickening and opacifying abilities, Behenic Acid's lower molecular weight and affinity for the skin allow it to aid in the penetration of other active ingredients, enhancing their effectiveness without causing irritation.