Tetradecylpropionates
AKA “C14 Propionate Ester
Emollient
Ingredient Facts
Tetradecylpropionates
AKA: C14 Propionate Ester
Emollient · Emollient · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Solvent
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
Tetradecylpropionates is an isomeric mixture of esters consisting chiefly of 2-Tetradecylpropionate, 3-Tetradecylpropionate and 4-Tetradecylpropionate
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.
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
Modern synthetic ester compounds developed for cosmetic preservation and conditioning purposes. Created in the 20th century to enhance product stability 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