Aleuritic Acid
What is Aleuritic Acid?
Aleuritic acid is a naturally occurring trihydroxy fatty acid, chemically known as 9,10,16-trihydroxyhexadecanoic acid, extracted from shellac resin. Shellac comes from the secretion of the lac bug, Kerria lacca, which feeds on trees primarily in Southeast Asia. In cosmetic formulations, it serves in the skin conditioning category as an emollient and humectant. It functions by creating a lightweight barrier on the skin surface that helps lock in moisture, enhances texture, and supports suppleness without heaviness. Commonly found in moisturizers, creams, lotions, and lip care products, it contributes to product stability and gentle hydration. Its fatty acid structure allows it to mimic skin's natural lipids, aiding in maintaining barrier integrity during daily use.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Benefits
Supports skin softness and smoothness through emollient action.
Promotes flexibility by helping retain natural moisture.
Non-comedogenic, suitable for daily conditioning without pore concerns.
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| Individuals with dry skin needing gentle moisture retention. | People with known allergies to shellac or lac resin. |
| Those preferring natural-derived conditioning ingredients. | Those sensitive to insect-derived ingredients. |
| Users of lotions and creams for everyday texture improvement. | Anyone experiencing reactions during patch testing. |
Safety Notes
- Rated low hazard by EWG with scores of 1.
- Recognized as safe for cosmetic use by ingredient review experts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aleuritic Acid
What is aleuritic acid derived from?
It comes from shellac resin, secreted by the lac bug on trees.
Is aleuritic acid safe for sensitive skin?
It has a low hazard rating and functions gently as a conditioner.
Does it cause breakouts?
No, with a comedogenic rating of 0, it avoids pore clogging.