Cetearyl Isononanoate
An emollient ester with a dry finish. It softens skin, improves cream glide and leaves no tackiness. 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
Cetearyl Isononanoate is an ester of cetearyl alcohol and isononanoic acid. INCI: Cetearyl Isononanoate. In a formula it works as a dry emollient: it softens skin, gives a smooth non-greasy slip, and improves the spread of cream and pigments. It is a functional sensory component, not a skincare active. It suits daytime creams, emulsions, and color cosmetics that need a light texture. Pregnancy safety. Systemic absorption through intact skin is low and there is no evidence of harm. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. Irritation and allergen potential are low, comedogenicity is low.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cetearyl Isononanoate safe during pregnancy?
Cetearyl Isononanoate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Cetearyl Isononanoate for?
Cetearyl Isononanoate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Cetearyl Isononanoate and what does it do in cosmetics?
An emollient ester with a dry finish.
Is Cetearyl Isononanoate comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Cetearyl Isononanoate?
The INCI name is Cetearyl Isononanoate.
See Cetearyl Isononanoate in a product composition right on the store page
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Ingredients in the same category
Cetyl Alcohol, Cetyl Esters, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Cetyl Palmitate, Glycol Cetearate, Kappaphycus Alvarezii Extract, Polyquaternium-51, Vigna Aconitifolia Seed Extract
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