C20-40 Alkyl Behenate
AKA “C20-40 Alkyl Behenate, Alkyl Behenate
Emollient
Ingredient Facts
C20-40 alkyl behenate
Emollient · Emollient · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Docosanoic acid, C20-40-alkyl ester
CAS #
222722-15-8
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic ester developed for cosmetics in the late 20th century. Designed as an emollient and thickening agent to improve product texture and skin feel.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR