Behenyl Alcohol at a Glance
- Is considered a fatty, non-drying form of alcohol
- Is used as a thickener and moisturizing ingredient in cosmetics
- Also known as 1-docosanol
- Has been ruled safe as used in cosmetics
Behenyl Alcohol Description
Behenyl alcohol, also known as 1-docosanol, is a synthetic or plant-derived thickening agent and emulsifier used in cosmetics. It also serves as a moisturizing ingredient. It’s considered a fatty alcohol not related to drying forms of alcohol. In its raw form it is a white, waxy solid.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has deemed behenyl alcohol to be safe for topical application as used in cosmetics.
Behenyl Alcohol References
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2017, pages 206-216
International Journal of Toxicology, May 2014, pages 77-142
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy, March 2010, Volume 11, pages 853-860
Journal of the American College of Toxicology, 1988, pages 1-55
CosmeticsInfo.org, ePublication
Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding usage constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.