Common Name(s): Heptylundecanol,2-heptyl-1-undecanol,branched c18 fatty alcohol

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Provides smooth, non-greasy skin conditioning.

Why It's Used: A branched c18 fatty alcohol with the branch point at c2 (heptyl = c7 branch, undecanol = c11 chain); branching at c2 prevents crystallization and creates a liquid emollient unlike linear c18 stearyl alcohol.

How It Works: Branching at c2 of the c18 chain prevents the crystallization of linear stearyl alcohol; liquid at room temperature; provides spreading and non-greasy emollience.

Typically Found In: Lightweight skin care,sunscreens,spreading agents

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emollient

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,spreading agent

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Branched c18 fatty alcohol; synthetic or from branched fatty acid reduction. [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: Other emollients,fatty alcohols,natural oils

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Branched fatty alcohols like heptylundecanol provide the conditioning of long-chain fatty alcohols (c18) without the stiff crystallinity of linear stearyl/oleyl alcohols; 2-branched isomers are among the most effective non-crystallizing fatty alcohols.

Last Verified: 2026-03-28

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary