C12-13 Alkyl Lactate
Lactic acid ester; light non-occlusive emollient. Functional formulation ingredient with no standalone activity on the skin.
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
About this ingredient
C12-13 Alkyl Lactate is an ester of lactic acid and a C12-C13 alcohol blend. A light synthetic emollient. Mechanism. On skin it forms a thin film with a silky dry slip. Fills intercellular spaces of the upper stratum corneum, improves smoothness, and reduces transepidermal water loss. Unlike heavy oils it leaves no greasy film – suitable for daytime formulas and oily-skin products. Where applied. Light creams, emulsions, makeup primers, products for oily and combination skin, men's aftershave cosmetics. Concentration 2–10%. In Spain in La Roche-Posay Effaclar, Avène Cleanance, ISDIN oily-skin lines. Safety. CIR confirmed safety of alkyl lactates in cosmetics. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Used without restriction. Functional role. A formula emollient aid, not a cosmetic active. Lactic acid in esterified form does not act on skin as an AHA – not to be confused with free topical lactic acid.
Frequently asked questions
Is C12-13 Alkyl Lactate safe during pregnancy?
C12-13 Alkyl Lactate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What is C12-13 Alkyl Lactate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Lactic acid ester; light non-occlusive emollient.
What's the INCI name for C12-13 Alkyl Lactate?
The INCI name is C12-13 Alkyl Lactate.
See C12-13 Alkyl Lactate 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
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