Hexyldecanol is a branched C16 Guerbet alcohol (INCI: Hexyldecanol) used primarily as an oil-phase emollient and sensory modifier.
The branched structure is associated with low melting/freezing behavior and an elegant, non-waxy skin feel, which helps maintain fluidity and reduce crystallization/haze risk in anhydrous oils and emulsions.
In cosmetics, it is commonly positioned as a medium-spreading emollient with good hydrolysis stability and suitability across a wide formulation pH range, including systems where ester emollients may be less robust.
Product Description: Hexyldecanol functions as a low-polarity, oil-phase conditioning agent that improves slip, spread, and after-feel while helping to keep the oil phase mobile at lower temperatures. Formulators often use it to lighten heavier oil blends without sacrificing substantivity, and to improve handling of fragrance materials (carrier/diluent role) in anhydrous or low-water systems. Its wide-pH positioning makes it a practical choice for challenging products such as deodorants/antiperspirants and depilatories, where hydrolysis-sensitive esters can be less suitable. In clear oils/serums, it can support clarity and reduce the tendency for clouding or crystallization by lowering the blend’s overall solidification tendency.
Usage: Suitable for emulsions and anhydrous products where you want a clean, medium-spreading emolliency: body/face care, after-sun, baby care/cleansing, wipes, sun care, deodorant/antiperspirant, depilatory/hair-removal, and fragrance bases.
Mixing method:
- Add to the oil phase of emulsions; process with the rest of the oil phase (typical heating/mixing used for your oil blend and emulsifier system).
- For anhydrous oils/serums and fragrance bases, blend directly until uniform; use gentle warming only if needed to dissolve other higher-melting components.
- Compatible across a wide pH range as an oil-phase material; confirm final formula stability, clarity, and sensory balance with your full oil/emulsifier system.
Usage rate: 1–20%
Typical use depends on desired slip/spread and the heaviness of the rest of the oil phase; start low and adjust to target after-feel and viscosity.
Product characteristics: Colorless to pale yellow liquid; mild characteristic alcohol odor.
Solubility: Oil soluble; very low water solubility. Miscible with many organic solvents and commonly compatible with hydrocarbon oils, esters, and fragrance materials.
Storage: Store tightly closed at room temperature, away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
