10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid
AKA “10-hydroxycapric acid, 10-hydroxy-decanoic acid, NSC-15139, RefChem:77533, 10HDA CPD
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
10-hydroxydecanoic acid
AKA: 10-hydroxycapric acid, 10-hydroxy-decanoic acid, NSC-15139, RefChem:77533, 10HDA CPD
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 1
Synthetic
Humectant
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
A naturally-derived fatty acid that moisturizes and softens skin, helping to maintain its natural protective barrier and improve overall texture.
Formula
C10H20O3
Mol. Weight
188.26
CAS #
1679-53-4
Form
Liquid
State
Solid
See origin →
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic fatty acid derivative developed for modern cosmetics as a humectant and skin conditioning agent. Created to provide enhanced moisturizing and emollient benefits in contemporary skincare formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Uneven Texture
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR