C10-40 Isoalkyl Acid
AKA “Branched chain fatty acid
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
C10-40 isoalkyl acid
AKA: Branched chain fatty acid
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Hair Care
Barrier Lipid
Synthetic
Clean
C10-40 Isoalkyl Acid is a mixture of branched, saturated fatty acids with 10 to 40 carbons in the alkyl chain, isolated from Lanolin Acid Science: Functions: Hair Conditioning, Skin Conditioning, Skin Conditioning - Emollient Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Form
Liquid
State
Solid
See origin →
Functions
Hair 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.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Synthetic emollient and surfactant component developed for modern cosmetics in the late 20th century. Designed to improve product texture and stability in formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Insufficient
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USAunder review
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR