Lauryl Alcohol is a potent emollient, surfactant, and thickener widely used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is a fatty alcohol that is hydrating for the skin, unlike volatile alcohols like ethanol, which usually dry out the skin. Also known as dodecanol, this alcohol helps soften and smooth the skin and hair - giving them a healthy glow. As an emulsifier, Lauryl Alcohol helps mix oil and water together, improving the stability and texture of formulations. In its raw form, this ingredient appears as a waxy solid or a colorless liquid with a sweet, floral fragrance. Commonly found in moisturizers, conditioners, shampoos, cleansers, and sunscreens, Lauryl Alcohol is safe and non-drying. Its chemical formula is C12H26O.
Products with LAURYL ALCOHOL
With samples available
PhytoDefense CLR™
by CLR Berlin
- Sustainable option
- Original documents
Prolipid™ 141 lamellar gel
by Ashland
- Sustainable option
What is LAURYL ALCOHOL used for?
Lauryl Alcohol is highly valued in cosmetics for its various beneficial properties. It improves product feel and function while supporting skin and hair conditioning.
For skin: Lauryl Alcohol acts as an effective emollient, helping to soften and smooth the skin by forming a protective barrier that locks in moisture. It enhances the creamy texture of lotions and creams, making them easier to spread and more pleasant to apply. Additionally, Lauryl Alcohol works as an emulsifier, helping oil and water ingredients blend evenly, which improves product stability and skin feel.
For hair: Lauryl Alcohol deeply conditions the hair and scalp - making the shafts softer, shinier, and frizz-free. It provides a lubricating effect that improves detangling and manageability, especially in damaged or dry hair, without leaving a greasy residue. This alcohol also improves the spreadability of hair care products, allowing for better coverage.
Origin
Lauryl Alcohol is derived from natural sources like coconut oil or palm kernel oil. The oil is first hydrolyzed to separate lauric acid. This auric acid is reacted with hydrogen gas under controlled heat and pressure to result in Lauryl Alcohol. The final ingredient is purified for use in cosmetics.
What does LAURYL ALCOHOL do in a formulation?
EMOLLIENT|
EMULSIFYING|
EMULSION STABILISING|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLING|
HAIR CONDITIONING|
HUMECTANT|
SURFACTANTSafety Profile
Lauryl Alcohol is safe for use when formulated properly and used within recommended concentrations. Unlike volatile alcohols, Lauryl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which makes it non-drying for the skin and hair. It is largely non-irritating and non-comedogenic. However, individuals with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation. Patch testing is recommended prior to full application.
LAURYL ALCOHOL alternatives
LAURYL ALCOHOL technical profile
| Property | Values |
Boiling Point | 259°C |
Melting Point | 24°C |
Solubility | Practically insoluble in water; soluble in oil |
Viscosity | Low to medium |