Heptyl Undecylenate

Heptyl Undecylenate at a Glance

• An alkyl ester derived from castor oil
• Helps trap moisture, hydrating skin
• Leaves a light, powdery after-feel
• Appears in skin care in amounts between 0.01% and 26%

Heptyl Undecylenate Description

Heptyl undecylenate is a castor oil-derived natural skin care ingredient that can help hydrate skin, prevent moisture loss and improve the feel of formulas by reducing the likelihood of a greasy after-feel.

As a lightweight emollient, heptyl undecylenate lends skin a protective “shield,” trapping moisture to further prevent trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) and hydrate. Through this, heptyl undecylenate gives skin a smooth, moisturized look. It’s often used as an alternative to mineral oil.

Unlike other emollients, this derivative (known as an ester) leaves a powdery, light feel on skin, not a greasy, oil one. It’s used in formulas to help mitigate the greasy feel that other hydrating emollient ingredients leave on skin.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that heptyl undecylenate is safe for use in cosmetics, appearing in formulas at amounts ranging from 0.01% to 26%.

Heptyl Undecylenate References