Lauryl Laurate

What is Lauryl Laurate?

Lauryl laurate is an ester produced by combining lauryl alcohol, a fatty alcohol chain with 12 carbons, and lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid also with 12 carbons, often derived from coconut or palm kernel oils. It falls into the emollient and conditioning agent category for skincare, haircare, and makeup products. In formulations, it works by depositing a thin, occlusive layer on the skin or hair surface to limit water evaporation, imparting a smooth, non-greasy finish. This property aids in binding powders for solid cosmetics, reinforcing emulsion structures against separation, conditioning hair shafts to reduce friction, and scattering light for an opaque, creamy visual effect. Its lightweight nature makes it suitable for lotions, creams, sticks, and shampoos, contributing to improved spreadability and sensorial appeal without heaviness.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Binder
Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.
Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Opacifying agent
Makes a formula less transparent to create a creamy, opaque look; can also help visually mask suspended particles and improve aesthetic uniformity.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Provides a smooth, velvety feel to skin and hair.

Enhances emulsion stability for longer-lasting product performance.

Offers non-greasy conditioning suitable for daily use.

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 seeking lightweight skin softeners.
Those with rare sensitivities to fatty acid esters.
Users of cream or lotion products for better texture.
Individuals preferring fully botanical ingredients.
People wanting hair products that improve manageability.
People experiencing irritation from similar emollients.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lauryl Laurate

What is lauryl laurate derived from?

It is an ester from lauryl alcohol and lauric acid, sourced from plant-based fatty acids like those in coconut oil.

Is lauryl laurate safe for sensitive skin?

It rates low for irritation and hazard, suitable for most skin types when used as directed.

Does it help with product stability?

Yes, it stabilizes emulsions by preventing separation and improving overall formula integrity.