C12-13 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate
AKA “C12-13 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate, Alkyl ethylhexanoate ester
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
C12-13 alkyl ethylhexanoate
AKA: Alkyl ethylhexanoate ester
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 1
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
Hexanoic acid, 2-ethyl-, C12-13-alkyl esters Science: Functions: Skin Conditioning, Skin Conditioning - Emollient Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
CAS #
-
Form
Liquid
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.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Synthetic ester developed in the 20th century as a lightweight emollient and skin conditioning agent designed to replace heavier natural oils in cosmetic products.
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
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR