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C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate

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Catalog Number CI-SC-0440
Product Name C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
CAS 68411-27-8
Description C12-15 alkyl benzoate is a low-molecular weight ester of benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols.
Solubility Oil-soluble, <1% in water
Appearance Clear liquid, practically odorless
Application Lotions, creams, sun products, color cosmetics.
Storage Store in a closed container at a dry place at room temperature
Composition C12-15 alkyl benzoate
Features And Benefits Versatile emollient ester suitable for use in skin care, sun care and color cosmeticsCan be used to improve feel, softness and many other textural aspectsOffers excellent emolliency with added pigment-dispersing capabilitiesCan be used as an effective solvent for sunscreens
GMO GMONo data available
HS Code 2712900000
INCI C12-15 alkyl benzoate
Manufacture Produced from a reaction of benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols
Preservation Preservative-free
Purity Grade No purity grade applicable
Raw Material Source Benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols
Uses Can be added to formulas as is, add to oil phase. Typical use level 1-30%. For external use only.
Product Overview

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is a high-performance emollient ester derived from the esterification of benzoic acid and fatty alcohols with carbon chain lengths of 12 to 15. Known for its ability to provide a soft, cushiony feel while maintaining excellent skin compatibility, this versatile ingredient is primarily employed in a range of cosmetic applications, including sun care, hair care, make-up, toiletries, and skin care products. Its functions extend to acting as an emollient, solvent, and solubilizer, efficiently dissolving oil-soluble actives and UV filters to enhance product texture without imparting greasiness. Additionally, in clay masks and decorative cosmetics, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate serves as a dispersant for pigments and fine powders, and its lubricating properties facilitate wet and dry combing in hair care formulations. Given its exceptional mildness, especially around the eyes, it is ideal for eye-care compositions. Widely used in products such as shampoos, body washes, lotion sprays, body mists, body oils, massage oils, lotions, and creams, it is a non-toxic, non-sensitizing, non-comedogenic, and odorless ingredient, making it an appealing choice for formulators seeking effective and safe cosmetic solutions.

Case Study

Safety Assessment of C12-15 Alkyl Benzoates in Cosmetics

Becker, Lillian C., et al. International journal of toxicology, 2012, 31(6), 342S-372S.

The functions of alkyl benzoates in cosmetics include fragrance ingredients, skin conditioners (emollients), skin conditioners, preservatives, solvents, and plasticizers. This work evaluated the safety of alkyl benzoates, including C12-15 alkyl benzoates, in cosmetics. Overall, C12-15 alkyl benzoates are safe according to the current use methods and concentrations described in this safety assessment.
· The total uses of C12-15 alkyl benzoates investigated were 971 (858 leave-on products and 113 rinse-off products). A survey conducted by the Council found C12-15 alkyl benzoates used in leave-on products at levels ranging from 0.0008% to 59% and in rinse-off products at levels ranging from 0.0008% to 50% (with the highest concentrations in paste masks).
· C12-15 alkyl benzoates and other parabens are used in hair sprays and perfumes, and aerosol products containing these ingredients may be of concern for their potential effects on the lungs. Aerosol properties that determine respiratory deposition are particle size and density.
· Upon ingestion of C12-15 alkyl benzoates (5.0 g/kg) to albino rats, no toxicity was detected after 14 days. The eye irritation test of C12-15 alkyl benzoates (1.8%-2.4%; 0.1 ml) in rabbits did not result in rabbits getting eyesick. C12-15 alkyl benzoates (100%; 0.5 ml) tested at primary irritation was not primary irritating with a primary irritation index of 0.08 in the primary skin irritation test.

Effect of Emollients Such as C12-15 Alkyl Benzoates on Sunscreen Performance

Sohn, Myriam, et al. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 2020, 205, 111818.

The UV filter absorbance of a variety of sunscreen-related emollients, including C12-15 alkyl benzoates, in UV filter-emollient systems was studied and calculated to simulate sun protection factor (SPF) and/or UVA protection. Coefficient (PPD) to evaluate the impact of emollient on sun protection efficiency.
· The absorbance of the UV filters studied had a slight bathochromic shift as the polarity of the emollients commonly used in sunscreens increases.
· Performance simulations of UV filter combinations show that the maximum absorbance (λmax) wavelength and specific extinction at λmax (E1,1 (λmax) ) values vary with emollient without significant impact on SPF values. For Ethylhexyl Triazone (EHT) UV filters, C12-15 alkyl benzoates have particularly small E1,1 (λmax) values.
· Conversely, an increase in emollient polarity results in an increase in PPD factor values. This observation advocates the use of more polar emollients to optimize UVA protection. The simulated UV absorbance of two emollients, C12-15 alkyl benzoate and dioctyl carbonate, was studied to provide extreme values of the PDD factor. The absorbance spectrum covers almost the UVB range, whereas the absorbance of C12-15 alkyl benzoates is bathochromic-shifted (toward longer wavelengths) compared to dioctyl carbonate.

Custom Q&A

What is C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, and how is it produced?

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is an emollient ester created from the reaction of Benzoic Acid with fatty alcohols containing 12-15 carbon atoms. It is derived from renewable natural raw materials, providing a cushion-like emollience and a lubricious feel on the skin, which makes it a popular choice in various personal care products.

What are the primary uses of C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate in personal care products?

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is a multifunctional ingredient used mainly as an emollient, solvent, and solubilizer. It enhances the texture of formulations by providing a non-greasy feel and is commonly found in sun care, hair care, make-up, toiletries, and skincare products. It facilitates the dissolution of oil-soluble actives and UV filters, improving the overall application experience.

Can C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate be used in products for sensitive skin areas, like the eyes?

Yes, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is exceptionally mild and suitable for use around sensitive areas, such as the skin near the eyes. Its non-toxic, non-sensitizing, and odorless nature makes it a perfect ingredient for eye-care products.

How does C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate benefit hair care formulations?

In hair care products, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate acts as a lubricant, making both wet and dry combing easier. Its ability to disperse pigments and fine powder solids enhances the overall texture and application of hair care preparations.

Is C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate safe for use in cosmetics?

Yes, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is considered safe for use in cosmetic products. It is non-toxic, non-sensitizing, non-comedogenic, and odorless, making it suitable for a wide range of formulations, including shampoos, body washes, lotions, sprays, mists, body oils, massage oils, lotions, and creams.

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