Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate?

Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate is a lab-made ester created by joining 2-hexyldecanoic acid, a medium-chain fatty acid, with a long-chain fatty alcohol mixture called tetradecyloctadecyl alcohol. The result is a silky oil that acts as a skin-conditioning agent. Chemists first explored this type of ester in the 1990s while searching for plant-free substitutes for natural oils that would stay stable inside modern cosmetic formulas. Production involves an esterification step in which the acid and alcohol react under heat in the presence of a catalyst, followed by purification to remove any unreacted material. Thanks to its smooth texture and high oxidative stability it shows up in many leave-on products such as facial moisturizers, rich body lotions, hand creams, lip balms, foundations, sunscreens and hair styling creams.

Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The main role of this ingredient in skin and hair care is as an emollient. As an emollient it softens and smooths the surface of the skin or hair, fills in tiny cracks in the outer layer and leaves a light protective film that helps reduce moisture loss. Formulators like it because it spreads easily without feeling greasy, improving the overall texture of creams and lotions while giving them a more luxurious feel.

Who Can Use Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate

This silky ester suits most skin types including dry, normal and combination skin because it replenishes lost lipids without leaving a heavy residue. People with very oily or acne-prone skin can usually tolerate it too, though they may prefer to use it in lighter formulas since rich emollients can sometimes feel heavy on already oily complexions.

Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate is produced in a lab from non-animal sources so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Of course the finished product also has to be cruelty-free for the claim to hold true.

The ingredient is not known to interfere with pregnancy or breastfeeding when used topically. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare they plan to use past a doctor just to be safe.

It does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so there is no added risk of photosensitivity. The ester is odorless and free of known hormone-like activity which makes it a low-key choice for sensitive users.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical use of Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues only and are unlikely to be the average user experience. When the ingredient is properly formulated most people will not notice any problems.

  • Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in very sensitive individuals
  • Allergic contact dermatitis if a person happens to be allergic to the ester itself
  • Clogged pores or breakouts on skin that is highly acne-prone when used in heavy leave-on products
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If you experience any negative reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 2 out of 5. Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate is an oily ester that cushions the skin yet has a lighter slip than highly comedogenic ingredients like isopropyl myristate. Its large molecular size limits deep follicular penetration, which lowers the chance of pore blockage, but its lipid nature still carries some risk on very clog-prone skin.

Most people prone to acne can use it without major issues as long as the overall formula is lightweight.

Keep in mind that the finished product’s full ingredient mix, how often it is applied, and individual skin biology all influence whether breakouts occur.

Summary

Tetradecyloctadecyl Hexyldecanoate is mainly an emollient, meaning it softens, smooths, and lightly seals the skin or hair by filling in microscopic gaps on the surface. Its long-chain structure delivers a silky feel while resisting oxidation, which helps creams, lotions, and makeup stay stable and luxuriously spreadable.

Although not as famous as jojoba oil or dimethicone, this lab-crafted ester quietly appears in a growing number of moisturizers, sunscreens, and color cosmetics because it offers a plant-free way to add richness without excess greasiness.

Safety data show it is low-irritation, non-sensitizing, and free of hormone-like activity, so it is considered safe for regular topical use. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a product before fully incorporating it into your routine just to rule out personal sensitivities.

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