C12-15 Alkyl Lactate has potent emollient, solvent, and skin-conditioning properties. It is a synthetic ester of lactic acid that forms a barrier on the skin and helps retain moisture. This ingredient is used to dissolve other ingredients in a formulation, particularly those that are difficult to incorporate in aqueous bases. Additionally, it plays a major role in improving the texture and spreadability of cosmetic products. In its raw form, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid or oil, with a mild, pleasant odor. It has a low to moderate viscosity that feels non-greasy upon application - making it good for oily or combination skin types.
CAS Number: 93925-36-1Chem/IUPAC Name: Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, C12-15-alkyl estersEINECS/ELINCS No: 300-338-1COSING REF No: 74637Products with C12-15 ALKYL LACTATE
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What is C12-15 ALKYL LACTATE used for?
C12-15 Alkyl Lactate is commonly used in personal care and makeup products due to its versatile benefits. In skincare, it functions as an emollient, providing moisture while leaving a non-greasy, smooth finish. It is also used for its mild exfoliating properties, helping to improve skin texture by gently removing dead skin cells. In hair care, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate enhances smoothness, detangles, and adds shine. Additionally, it serves as a solvent in formulations, improving the solubility of other ingredients. It is found in moisturizers, sunscreens, serums, shampoos, conditioners, and makeup products, contributing to better texture and application.
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl Lactate is produced through an esterification reaction, where lactic acid is combined with a blend of fatty alcohols derived from sources like coconut oil or palm oil (C12-C15). In the process, lactic acid reacts with the fatty alcohols in the presence of a catalyst, forming an ester. This ester is then purified and distilled to yield the final product.
What does C12-15 ALKYL LACTATE do in a formulation?
EMOLLIENT|
GEL FORMING|
HAIR CONDITIONING|
HUMECTANT|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
SMOOTHING|
SOLVENTSafety Profile
C12-15 Alkyl Lactate is a safe ingredient and has excellent skin compatibility. It is non-toxic and non-irritating when used in typical cosmetic concentrations (usually up to 5-10% in formulations). However, individuals with sensitive skin should perform a patch test before using products containing this ingredient. Further, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate is biodegradable - making it environmentally friendly compared to other synthetic emollients and solvents.
C12-15 ALKYL LACTATE alternatives
C12-15 ALKYL LACTATE technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Boiling Point | 325°C |
| Melting Point | -20°C |
| pH | 5.5-7 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and oil |
| Viscosity | Low to moderate |