Dodecyl Gallate

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential

Low

Allergen risk

Moderate

Pregnancy

Safe

Suitable for

Normal, Oily, Combination

Use with caution

Sensitive, Dry

About this ingredient

Dodecyl Gallate (also Lauryl Gallate, E312) is a synthetic antioxidant-preservative, an ester of gallic acid and dodecyl alcohol. Used in food and cosmetics to protect oils from oxidation and rancidity. Mechanism. Interrupts chain reactions of lipid oxidation by binding free radicals. Especially effective in protecting plant and animal oils, wax components, fat-soluble vitamins. In formulas at 0.005-0.1%. Where applied. Plant-oil-based cosmetics, lip balms, anti-aging products with oils, hair products with an oil phase. In food – in oils, margarine, chewing gum. In Spain – in niche artisan products and some natural cosmetic lines. Evidence base. Antioxidant efficacy confirmed by years of practice and standard stability tests. No active skin pharmacology. Safety and controversies. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations. Allergic contact dermatitis is described in the literature – per European Contact Dermatitis Group data, sensitization in 0.5-1% of patients suspected of preservative allergy. This places it in the risk group compared with other antioxidants (tocopherol, ascorbyl palmitate). Pregnancy and lactation – safe at standard cosmetic concentrations. Best suited to: healthy skin without contact dermatitis tendency. Not for sensitive skin or with gallate allergies (propyl-, octyl-, dodecyl-gallate – cross-sensitization).

Frequently asked questions