Nylon-12
AKA “Azacyclotridecan-2-one, Laurolactam, Lauryl lactam, Dodecyllactam, Laurinolactam, Laurin lactam, omega-Laurolactam, CYCLODODECALACTAM
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Nylon-12
AKA: Azacyclotridecan-2-one, Laurolactam, Lauryl lactam, Dodecyllactam, Laurinolactam, Laurin lactam, Omega-Laurolactam, CYCLODODECALACTAM
Synthetic · Skin Conditioning · EWG: 1
Synthetic
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
Nylon-12 is a cosmetic ingredient. Rated low hazard by EWG.
Formula
C12H23NO
Mol. Weight
197.32
CAS #
25038-74-8
Form
Powder
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.
Adds Body & Volume
Adds Opacity
Controls Viscosity
Adds volume
Creates creamy opacity
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A synthetic macrocyclic compound developed for use in fragrance and cosmetic formulations. Created as a component of musky scents in the late 20th century for perfumery and personal care products.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
EWG
1
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR