Common Name(s): Dodecyltetradecanol,branched c26 fatty alcohol,2-dodecyl-1-tetradecanol
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides a smooth, conditioning texture to skin care and hair care products.
Why It's Used: A branched long-chain fatty alcohol (c26) providing waxy emolliency with improved cold stability compared to linear c26 equivalents; used as a consistency modifier and emollient.
How It Works: Branched c26 structure reduces crystallinity versus linear c26; provides waxy viscosity modification in emulsions; similar function to cetyl and stearyl alcohol but with improved cold-temperature performance.
Typically Found In: Rich creams,thick lotions,hair conditioners,w/o emulsions
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emollient
Secondary Functions: Viscosity controlling,skin conditioning
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Typically from synthetic (fischer-tropsch) or petrochemical fatty alcohol synthesis; branched long chain. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: status downgraded on audit. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Fatty alcohols,emulsifiers,emollients
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Branched c26 fatty alcohols (dodecyltetradecanol) are specialty consistency agents used where standard linear c16-c22 fatty alcohols provide insufficient structure or where cold-temperature stability is needed; non-crystallizing branched form.
Last Verified: 2026-03-28
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary