Hexadecanolactone
A musk fragrance component. It gives a warm scent; some people may develop contact allergy.
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
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Hexadecanolactone is a macrocyclic lactone used as a fragrance component with a musky character. In the formula it serves no care function: it adds a warm, lingering note to the product's scent. As an aroma ingredient, its role is sensory. It does not act on the skin, does not moisturize and does not treat signs of aging. In the efficacy assessment for skincare, it is simply a fragrance component. In topical use it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Honesty about tolerance matters here: its allergy potential is medium. Like other perfume materials, in sensitized people it can trigger contact dermatitis. Most people do not react, but anyone with reactive skin or a history of fragrance allergy should keep it in mind and stop using the product if discomfort appears.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hexadecanolactone safe during pregnancy?
Hexadecanolactone is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Hexadecanolactone for?
Hexadecanolactone suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Hexadecanolactone and what does it do in cosmetics?
A musk fragrance component.
What's the INCI name for Hexadecanolactone?
The INCI name is Hexadecanolactone. It may also appear as: Musk Lactone.
See Hexadecanolactone 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
Other functional ingredients
Hexamethylindanopyran, Hexyl Cinnamic Aldehyde, Hexyl Nicotinate, Hexyl Salicylate, PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Raspberry Ketone, Trideceth-6, Ceteareth-20
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