What Is C29-70 Acid?
C29-70 Acid is a blend of long-chain fatty acids that fall between 29 and 70 carbon atoms in length. These fatty acids are usually sourced from plant oils such as coconut, palm or rapeseed, though some manufacturers may use animal fats. The mix is refined, separated and blended to reach a specific carbon-chain range that gives it useful texture-building traits.
Fatty acids have been part of skin care since the early cold-cream formulas of the 1800s, but the idea of grouping them by chain length gained ground in the late 20th century when chemists noticed that certain chain ranges offered better stability in creams and lotions. By the 1990s suppliers were producing tailored fatty acid blends like C29-70 Acid for large beauty brands that wanted thicker, silkier products without heavy waxes.
Production starts with steam-distilling natural oils to split the triglycerides into free fatty acids. These acids are then passed through a distillation column where the desired 29-70 carbon fraction is collected. The result is a waxy, off-white solid that melts when warmed and mixes easily with other oil-based ingredients.
You will most often spot C29-70 Acid in rich moisturizers, night creams, body butters, leave-on hair masks and some makeup primers. It is prized for giving formulas a smooth glide while helping water and oil components stay blended.
C29-70 Acid’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a formula C29-70 Acid pulls double duty that improves both feel and performance:
- Emulsifying – Helps keep water and oil phases mixed so creams stay uniform and do not split, which means a stable product and an even application every time
- Viscosity Controlling – Thickens the formula to create a richer texture that feels cushioning on skin and helps prevent runny or drippy consistency
Who Can Use C29-70 Acid
C29-70 Acid suits most skin types, especially normal, dry and mature skin that appreciate a richer feel. Combination skin often tolerates it well when used in balanced formulas. Very oily or acne-prone skin may find that the heavy fatty acid blend feels too occlusive, which could contribute to clogged pores if the rest of the formula is not carefully designed.
Vegans and vegetarians need to check the source because these fatty acids can be derived from either plant oils or animal fats. Brands that rely solely on coconut, palm or rapeseed oil typically label the ingredient as vegan friendly. If the supply chain is not disclosed or the product is not certified vegan, those following a strict plant-based lifestyle may want to seek clarification.
Topical use while pregnant or breastfeeding is generally viewed as low risk because C29-70 Acid does not penetrate deeply and has no known hormonal activity. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show their chosen skin care products to a doctor just to be safe.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance-free and free from common sensitizing preservatives, making it a relatively gentle texture helper even for reactive skin types.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to C29-70 Acid can vary. The effects below are possible but unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in very sensitive individuals
- Contact allergy in people with a specific sensitivity to long-chain fatty acids
- Clogged pores or breakouts on acne-prone skin, especially if the overall formula is already heavy in oils
- Greasy feel or unwanted shine on very oily skin
- Rare eye irritation if a product containing the ingredient migrates into the eye area
If you notice any of the above reactions, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 3/5
C29-70 Acid consists of long chain fatty acids that sit on the skin surface and create a richer, more occlusive feel than lighter emollients. While these chains are less likely to penetrate deeply, they can trap sweat and sebum under the film they form, so they earn a mid-range score. The risk climbs if the ingredient is used at high levels or paired with other heavy oils and waxes.
Because of this, people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts may find C29-70 Acid a bit too rich, especially in leave-on products.
Real-world clogging potential depends on the full formula, how much of the blend is used and personal skin behavior, so experiences can vary.
Summary
C29-70 Acid works primarily as an emulsifier and viscosity controller, helping water and oil stay mixed while giving creams and butters a smooth cushioned texture. Its long chain fatty acids stack neatly together, thickening the oil phase so formulas feel richer without the need for hard waxes.
The ingredient is moderately popular in moisturizers and overnight treatments where brands want a luxe glide and dependable stability, but it is less common in lightweight gels or acne focused lines.
Overall safety is good: the blend is inert, non-sensitizing for most users and free of known hormone activity. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to patch test a product before full use to make sure your skin is happy with it.