Behenyl Behenate
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Behenic Acid, Behenyl Alcohol
Ester of behenic acid and behenyl alcohol | Plant-derived or synthetic
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Behenyl Behenate?
Behenyl behenate is the wax-like ester of the fatty acid behenic acid and fatty alcohol behenyl alcohol. This plant-derived or synthetic ingredient hydrates skin and adds occlusive properties to emulsions like creams and lotions, which help to prevent moisture loss.
This ingredient is considered safe as used in cosmetics, including products meant for application to lips. Usage levels in cosmetics range from 1–20%.
Interestingly, behenic acid is one of the fatty acids that occurs naturally in human sebum (oil), so it’s considered bio-compatible with skin. Behenic acid is also one of the saturated main fatty acids found in fish oil.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2017, pages 206-216 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ics.12366]
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2015, pages 5S-69S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1091581815594027]
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British Journal of Dermatology, February 2012, pages 279-287 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10662.x]
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Pharmazie, March 1995, pages 188-190 [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7732049/]
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