C14-22 Alcohols
What is C14-22 Alcohols?
C14-22 Alcohols refer to a mixture of saturated, straight-chain primary fatty alcohols with carbon chain lengths from 14 to 22 atoms. Commonly sourced from hydrogenated vegetable oils like coconut or rapeseed, they belong to the fatty alcohol family distinct from simple alcohols. In cosmetics, they function within emulsion and surfactant systems, acting as co-emulsifiers and viscosity builders. These alcohols work by organizing into a gel-like network around oil droplets in water-based formulas, which reinforces the interfacial film, resists creaming or coalescence, and maintains product integrity over time. This role supports the creation of stable, spreadable textures in leave-on products such as body creams, facial moisturizers, and conditioners, contributing to sensorial qualities without adding greasiness.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Benefits
Strengthens emulsion integrity to prevent separation
Builds desirable thickness and spreadability
Supports non-comedogenic formulations for clearer pores
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| People with acne-prone skin due to zero comedogenic potential | Individuals with rare allergies to fatty alcohols |
| Sensitive skin users needing gentle thickeners | People preferring fully anhydrous products |
| Those using daily moisturizers for reliable texture | Those sensitive to plant-derived emollients |
Safety Notes
- Consistently low hazard rating from safety assessments
- Minimal irritation potential in typical use levels
Frequently Asked Questions about C14-22 Alcohols
What are C14-22 Alcohols?
A blend of long-chain fatty alcohols from vegetable sources, used to thicken and stabilize lotions and creams.
Are they irritating?
Evidence shows low irritation risk, suitable for sensitive formulations.
Do they cause breakouts?
Non-comedogenic rating of zero indicates no pore-clogging tendency.