C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester
A waxy emollient ester. It softens skin and gives the formula body and shine. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A functional emollient. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester is a waxy ester built from long-chain fatty acids and glycol. In a formula it acts as an emollient: it softens skin, gives the texture body and brings a denser, glossier finish. It is common in sticks, balms and rich creams. This is a functional formula component, not an active. It works on the feel and structure of the product, not on wrinkles or spots. As an emollient it helps cut water loss by forming a soft surface layer, which is real but modest. Do not expect a corrective effect from it. Applied topically it stays on the surface with no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerability is good, with low irritation and allergy potential. Its comedogenicity is mild (2 of 5): no problem for most skin, but on very oily or acne-prone skin it is worth noting when it sits high on the ingredient list.
Frequently asked questions
Is C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester safe during pregnancy?
C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester for?
C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester and what does it do in cosmetics?
A waxy emollient ester.
Is C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 2/5 – low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester?
The INCI name is C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester.
See C18-36 Acid Glycol Ester in a product composition right on the store page
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Ingredients in the same category
C18-36 Acid Triglyceride, C20-22 Alcohols, C9-12 Alkane, Caesalpinia Spinosa Fruit Extract, Gardenia Taitensis Flower, Hydroxyethyl Urea, PEG-75 Shea Butter Glycerides, Synthetic Beeswax
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