Beheneth-5
INCI: Behenyl Alcohol
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Behenyl Alcohol
Beheneth-5 is a derivative of polyethylene glycol and non-drying
EWG Safety Score
What Is Beheneth-5?
Beheneth-5 is a derivative of polyethylene glycol and non-drying behenyl alcohol that functions as an emulsifier and surfactant in skin care products. It can be synthetic or plant-derived.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2012, Volume 31, Supplement 5, pages 169S-244S International Journal of Toxicology, 2012
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Beheneth-5 is a variant of Behenyl Alcohol, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Is considered a fatty, non-drying form of alcohol | Used as a thickener and moisturising ingredient in cosmetics
Related Ingredients
Behenyl Alcohol
Is considered a fatty, non-drying form of alcohol | Used as a thickener and moisturising ingredient in cosmetics
Acrylates Crosspolymer-4
A synthetic polymer that stabilises formulations and helps create smooth, consistent textures
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A bacterial polysaccharide that conditions skin and stabilises formulations
Almond Oil Glycereth-8 Esters
A plant-derived emollient that softens skin and stabilises formulations
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer
A synthetic polymer that stabilises emulsions and adjusts texture in skincare formulations
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer
A synthetic polymer that stabilises emulsions and helps maintain product texture
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