What it is
Cetearyl Isononanoate is the ester formed between cetearyl alcohol and isononanoic acid, a branched-chain fatty acid. The branching gives it a light, dry, non-greasy slip that spreads easily over skin. In sunscreens and lotions it is used as an emollient and spreading agent that improves texture and can help disperse other oil-soluble ingredients, including UV filters.
Safety & warnings
This ester is generally well tolerated and considered low in irritation potential. As a light branched-chain ester it is generally regarded as low on the comedogenicity scale, though individual responses vary. It is not a fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
It is a synthetic ester, typically made from fatty alcohols and a branched fatty acid that may be of plant or petrochemical origin.
Questions everyone asks
What is Cetearyl Isononanoate for?
It is a light emollient that improves spreadability and gives a smooth, non-greasy skin feel.
Does it help with UV filters?
As an oily ester it can help dissolve and evenly disperse oil-soluble ingredients, which can include some UV filters.