What Is C18-28 Alkyl Acetate?
C18-28 Alkyl Acetate is the cosmetic name for a group of esters made when acetic acid reacts with long chain fatty alcohols that have between 18 and 28 carbon atoms. In everyday terms it is a silky, wax-like substance created from plant oils such as sunflower, rapeseed or palm, although some suppliers can start with synthetic fatty alcohols that match the same chain length. By turning the fatty alcohols into esters, chemists give the material a lighter feel and better spreadability than the original oils.
The beauty industry first looked at these esters in the late 1990s as a way to replace heavier petrolatum in creams and lotions. Their soft touch and low greasiness soon made them a favorite in natural inspired formulas. Production is straightforward: purified fatty alcohols are blended with food grade acetic acid, then heated with a small amount of catalyst until the reaction is complete. After washing and filtration the neutral ester is ready for use.
Because it is stable and non volatile, you will find C18-28 Alkyl Acetate in a wide range of leave-on and rinse-off products. Common examples include moisturizers, anti-aging creams, makeup primers, stick foundations, lip balms, hair masks and solid cleansing bars. It is also handy in sunscreen and after-sun products where a smooth, non oily finish is desired.
C18-28 Alkyl Acetate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for this ingredient because it improves both the feel and the performance of a product.
- Skin conditioning – It softens and smooths the skin surface, helping dry or rough areas feel more comfortable. Its low tack leaves no heavy residue so finished products feel elegant rather than greasy
- Emollient – It fills in tiny gaps between skin cells which reduces moisture loss and gives formulas a richer texture without clogging pores. This makes creams spread more evenly and gives lip products or solid sticks better slip during application
Who Can Use C18-28 Alkyl Acetate
C18-28 Alkyl Acetate is classed as a lightweight emollient so it suits most skin types including dry, balanced and oily. Its silky feel and low greasiness make it a comfortable option for people who dislike heavy creams yet still need softness and moisture. Very acne prone skin may prefer to use it in lower percentages as rich emollients can sometimes sit on top of congested pores, but in real-world formulas this ester is not known for triggering breakouts.
The ingredient is generally sourced from plant oils which means finished products can be suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If animal origin matters to you always check with the brand because suppliers can also start with synthetic alcohols or, less commonly, tallow-derived ones.
Current safety data shows no issues for pregnant or breastfeeding users when the ester is used at levels seen in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show their chosen skincare to a doctor or midwife for personal guidance.
C18-28 Alkyl Acetate does not increase photosensitivity so there is no special sun care precaution tied to its use. It is also odorless and colorless so it rarely interferes with fragrance-free or dye-free routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical C18-28 Alkyl Acetate vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels and when the finished product has been made correctly.
- Mild skin irritation
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to esters or residual catalysts
- Temporary clogged pores on highly oily or acne prone skin when used in very rich formulas
- Eye stinging if the raw material is applied too close to the lash line
If you experience any of these issues stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
C18-28 Alkyl Acetate is a light ester that spreads easily and tends to sit on the surface rather than sinking into pores, which keeps its clogging potential low. Unlike heavier waxes or butters it does not form an occlusive film, so most skin types tolerate it without extra congestion. For these reasons formulators generally place it at the lower end of the comedogenic scale.
In short, people prone to acne or frequent breakouts can usually use products containing this ingredient without issues, especially when it is part of a balanced formula and not the main oil phase.
Because each finished product has its own mix of thickeners, waxes and actives, overall pore-clogging risk depends on the full recipe, not just this single ester.
Summary
C18-28 Alkyl Acetate works as a skin-conditioning emollient that softens rough patches and reduces moisture loss while keeping formulas lightweight and non greasy. It achieves this by filling tiny gaps between skin cells and creating a smooth surface slip that feels silky instead of oily.
Although not as famous as ingredients like shea butter or squalane, this ester is quietly popular with formulators who want a natural-leaning alternative to petrolatum or silicones in creams, lotions, sticks and balms.
Current safety data shows it is well tolerated by most users and carries a very low irritation or sensitization risk. Still, skin can be unpredictable, so performing a simple patch test with any new product is always a smart move.