Common Name(s): C40-60 acid,very long chain fatty acid,ultra-long-chain saturated fatty acid
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Adds a waxy, structured texture to oil-based formulas while providing smooth skin feel.
Why It's Used: Very long chain fatty acids (c40-c60 saturated) provide high melting point waxy behavior; used as thickeners and structure-builders in anhydrous lipstick, balm, and cream formulations.
How It Works: Very long c40-c60 saturated chains create high crystalline melting points (>70ยฐc); provide waxy structure and lubrication in color cosmetics; film-forming on skin and lips.
Typically Found In: Lipsticks,anhydrous balms,stick formulations,color cosmetics,wax blends
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient โ emollient
Secondary Functions: Viscosity controlling,film forming,texture modification
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: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetic very long chain fatty acids from petroleum or fischer-tropsch synthesis.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 โ low
Sensitivity Concerns: Very inert; generally non-irritating; waxy character.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Waxes,silicones,emollients,natural butters
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Very long chain fatty acids (vlcfa, c40+) occur naturally in plant waxes (cuticular waxes); synthetic c40-60 acid mixtures provide similar waxy functionality to natural carnauba/candelilla wax components without the variability of natural sources.
Last Verified: 2026-03-27
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary