INCI page

TRIOCTYLDODECYL CITRATE: INCI Ingredient

Last update on Jun 29, 2026

Trioctyldodecyl Citrate is a high-molecular-weight, branched ester emollient. It is known for its rich yet non-greasy feel and excellent pigment-dispersing properties. It provides a luxurious, velvety skin feel, good spreadability, and long-lasting emolliency. This clear, viscous liquid is widely used in lipsticks, lip glosses, foundations, sunscreens, and rich creams. It is widely used, especially where high oil loading and superior texture are required.

CAS Number: 126121-35-5Chem/IUPAC Name: Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-hydroxy-, tris(2-octyldodecyl) esterEINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 80402

Products with TRIOCTYLDODECYL CITRATE

See all products
With samples available

What is TRIOCTYLDODECYL CITRATE used for?

  • Emollient/skin conditioning: Delivers a rich, cushiony, and velvety after-feel. Frequently used in lipsticks, foundations, and moisturizers for luxurious texture.
  • Pigment dispersant: Excellent at dispersing and stabilizing color pigments. Common in color cosmetics for even color distribution and stability.
  • Solvent & viscosity modifier: Helps dissolve waxes and adjust viscosity in anhydrous systems. Ideal for lip products and balms.

Origin

Trioctyldodecyl Citrate is produced by the esterification of citric acid with octyldodecanol (a branched fatty alcohol derived from vegetable sources). It is a plant-derived or semi-synthetic emollient with high purity and stability.
Safety Profile

What does TRIOCTYLDODECYL CITRATE do in a formulation?

EMOLLIENT|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Safety Profile

Trioctyldodecyl Citrate is considered safe for cosmetic use with a low hazard rating from EWG (1). The CIR Expert Panel has assessed citric acid esters as safe as used. It is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic. Approved by the EU COSING database for emollient and skin conditioning functions in rinse-off and leave-on products.

TRIOCTYLDODECYL CITRATE technical profile

PropertyValues
Boiling Point>300 °C
Melting Point<0 °C
pHNeutral
SolubilitySoluble in oils and esters; insoluble in water
ViscosityHigh