Arachidonic Acid
AKA “(5Z, 14Z)-icosa-5, 14-tetraenoic acid, (all-Z)-5, 14-Eicosatetraenoic acid, cis-5, 14Z-eicosatetraenoic acid
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Arachidonic acid
AKA: (5Z, 14Z)-icosa-5, 14-tetraenoic acid, (all-Z)-5, 14-Eicosatetraenoic acid, Cis-5, 14Z-eicosatetraenoic acid
Synthetic · Antioxidant · EWG: 1
Synthetic
Antioxidant
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
A naturally-derived fatty acid that softens and conditions skin, helping to maintain its natural moisture barrier and improve texture.
Formula
C20H32O2
Mol. Weight
304.50
CAS #
506-32-1
Form
Liquid
State
Liquid; [Merck Index]
See origin →
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Antioxidant
Fights free radicals — the unstable molecules from UV, pollution, and stress that break down collagen and cause premature aging.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
An omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid identified in the early 20th century; used in skincare for its role in skin barrier function and anti-inflammatory properties.
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Dryness
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR