What it is
Lauryl Alcohol is a saturated fatty alcohol with a twelve-carbon chain, typically a waxy solid at room temperature. In formulations it serves as an emollient and helps stabilize emulsions and adjust viscosity, contributing to a smooth, uniform texture. It is also used as a building block for milder cleansing surfactants.
Safety & warnings
As a fatty alcohol, lauryl alcohol is generally well tolerated and is chemically distinct from drying, volatile alcohols like ethanol. At higher concentrations it can have mild irritant potential for some individuals. It is generally regarded as low risk for comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Can be derived from natural sources such as coconut or palm kernel oil, or produced synthetically.
Questions everyone asks
Is lauryl alcohol drying like regular alcohol?
No, it is a fatty alcohol that acts as an emollient and texture enhancer, unlike volatile alcohols such as ethanol that can feel drying.
What role does lauryl alcohol play in a formula?
It functions as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and viscosity adjuster, helping create a smooth and stable product.