What Is C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate?
C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate is a clear, lightweight liquid made by combining carbonic acid with fatty alcohols that have 14 to 15 carbon atoms. These fatty alcohols usually come from plant oils such as coconut or palm, though they can also be produced in a lab. Chemists react the alcohols with dimethyl carbonate, then purify the result to get a stable cosmetic grade ester.
The ingredient first appeared in skin care formulas in the early 2000s when brands were looking for silky alternatives to silicones. Its “dry touch” feel made it popular in products that needed to spread easily without leaving an oily film.
Today you will spot C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate in face and body lotions, moisturizers, sunscreens, makeup primers, foundations, lip balms, cream-to-powder blushes and even some hair serums. It helps these items glide over the skin, improving texture and overall user experience.
C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays a couple of key roles that improve the look and feel of a formula
- Skin conditioning: Softens the surface of the skin, smooths rough patches and can help reduce moisture loss so skin feels comfortable longer
- Emollient: Adds a light, non greasy slip that makes products easier to spread. It leaves a soft powdery finish which can replace heavier oils or silicones for people who prefer a lighter texture
Who Can Use C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate
Because it is a lightweight ester that sinks in quickly and leaves a dry silky finish, C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate suits oily, combination and normal skin best. Dry or very dry skin can still use it but will probably need to pair it with richer lipids or occlusives for lasting comfort. The ingredient has a low comedogenic profile so even congestion-prone skin usually tolerates it without clogged pores. It is generally considered gentle enough for sensitive skin since it is free from common irritants such as fragrance or essential oils.
The fatty alcohols used to make C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate are typically sourced from coconut or palm oil or produced synthetically, not from animals. That makes finished products containing it suitable for vegetarians and vegans as long as the rest of the formula also avoids animal-derived ingredients.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women regarding topical use of C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate. There is no known systemic absorption or hormonal activity. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all personal care products with a qualified healthcare provider.
The molecule does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more reactive to sunlight. It also plays well with other common cosmetic ingredients, showing no known incompatibilities.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate vary from person to person. The following points describe potential side effects that could occur, although most users experience none of them when the ingredient is formulated correctly
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in very sensitive individuals
- Contact allergy presenting as localized rash or hives, though reports are rare
- Temporary eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Breakouts in exceptionally acne-prone skin when used in heavy or multi-layer routines
If any unwanted reaction develops, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate is a small, branched ester that absorbs quickly and leaves little residue, so it is unlikely to block pores. It lacks the long, waxy chains common in highly comedogenic oils. Most formulators use it in low to moderate concentrations, further reducing clogging risk. For these reasons it is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because it can thin heavier oils, pairing it with richer emollients often lowers the overall comedogenic load of a formula, making it a useful tool in lightweight moisturizers designed for blemish-prone users.
Summary
C14-15 Dialkyl Carbonate acts mainly as a skin-conditioning emollient, softening skin and giving products a dry, silky glide. Its quick-absorbing nature comes from its balanced carbon chain length, which lets it spread easily yet evaporate or sink in without an oily after-feel. This makes it a popular silicone alternative in modern moisturizers, sunscreens, primers and makeup, though it remains more of a formulator’s favorite than a household name.
Safety data show a low irritation and allergy profile, with minimal pore-clogging potential and no known hormonal activity. Overall it is considered safe for all skin types when used as directed. As with any new cosmetic, patch test a small area first to rule out personal sensitivities.