Pentadecyl Alcohol

Also known as: 1-Pentadecanol / C15 Alcohol

INCI: Pentadecyl Alcohol | Function: Emollient, Viscosity Modifier, Emulsion Stabilizer | Type: Fatty Alcohol (C15)

What Is Pentadecyl Alcohol?

Pentadecyl Alcohol (1-pentadecanol) is a 15-carbon long-chain fatty alcohol. It functions as an emollient, providing a smooth, non-greasy skin feel. It also acts as a co-emulsifier and viscosity builder in creams and lotions, helping to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and improve product texture.

Key Skin Benefits

Pros

Cons

Specifications

PropertyValue
Usage AreasFace, Body, Hair
Product TypeLeave-On, Rinse-Off
SourcePlant / Synthetic
Natural LevelNatural-derived

Safety Ratings

MetricRating
Skin Sensitivity1/5
Comedogenic Rating0-1/5
EWG Score1/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

RegionLeave-on %Rinse-off %Status
EU (CosIng)No limitNo limitAllowed
US (CIR/FDA)No limitNo limitAllowed
Japan (MHLW)No limitNo limitAllowed
ASEANNo limitNo limitAllowed
China (NMPA)No limitNo limitAllowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product TypeTypical %
Face cream0.5 - 3%
Body lotion0.5 - 5%
Hair conditioner1 - 5%

References

  1. CosIng (2025) — Pentadecyl Alcohol. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
  2. EWG Skin Deep — Fatty alcohols safety. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
  3. SpecialChem — Fatty Alcohols in Cosmetics. https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/
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