Common Name(s): Docosanoic acid,n-docosanoic acid
CAS Number: 112-85-6
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides c22 saturated fatty acid film for superior hair conditioning and high oxidative stability.
Why It's Used: Long-chain saturated fatty acid for premium hair conditioning with maximum oxidative stability and anti-frizz film formation.
How It Works: C22 saturated chain with highest melting point (80ยฐc) among common cosmetic fatty acids. very dense crystalline packing on hair surface provides superior anti-frizz moisture exclusion. highest oxidative stability (no double bonds) of any cosmetic fatty acid.
Typically Found In: Anti-frizz hair products,stable oils,premium conditioners
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient โ c22 saturated fatty acid
Secondary Functions: Barrier sealing,softening
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%โ10%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - feedstock declaration required
Halal Status: Unverified - feedstock declaration required (plant, animal and petrochemical routes all exist)
Source Notes: Plant-derived, synthetic or animal-derived. verify source. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: origin-dependent: the same inci exists in plant, animal and petrochemical versions and the name does not discriminate. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 โ low; formulation-dependent
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Humectants,ceramides,actives as carrier
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Behenic acid's 80ยฐc melting point means it remains crystalline at room temperature and below the hair dryer operating temperature (~100-120ยฐc), providing a thermally stable protective film on hair during heat styling. other common fatty acid emollients (oleic, linoleic) melt below 20ยฐc, offering no solid protective film during heat exposure.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,cir safety assessment