Arachidyl Alcohol
Long-chain C20 fatty alcohol. Thickens emulsions, stabilizes cream textures, gives a soft slip on the skin. Not to be confused with ethyl alcohol – fatty alcohols soften, not dry. Usually paired with arachidyl glucoside and behenyl alcohol (the '1, 2, 3' complex).
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Arachidyl Alcohol is a saturated fatty alcohol with a long C20 chain. Produced by reduction of arachidic acid. Not to be confused with ethyl alcohol: fatty alcohols are waxy emollients, not solvents. Mechanism. Thickener and emulsion stabilizer: raises viscosity, builds a soft creamy texture. On skin forms a thin lipid film that holds moisture. Usually paired with arachidyl glucoside and behenyl alcohol – the 'C20-22' complex. Where applied. Creams and lotions (1–5%), body balms, hair conditioners and masks. Standard component of cream formulas, especially in dry-skin lines. Safety. CIR confirmed safety of fatty alcohols in cosmetics in 2009. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating (unlike ethyl alcohol), non-comedogenic (comedogenicity 0). Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage. Functional role. A cream formula structurant. Not to be confused with denatured alcohol – different molecules with opposite effects on skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Arachidyl Alcohol safe during pregnancy?
Arachidyl Alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Arachidyl Alcohol for?
Arachidyl Alcohol suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Arachidyl Alcohol and what does it do in cosmetics?
Long-chain C20 fatty alcohol.
What's the INCI name for Arachidyl Alcohol?
The INCI name is Arachidyl Alcohol. It may also appear as: C20 Fatty Alcohol.
See Arachidyl Alcohol in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Published: · updated: