Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Glycerin, Behenic Acid
A blend of glycerin and saturated fatty acids | Used to help suspend UV filter powders such as zinc oxide
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate?
Glyceryl behenate/eicosadioate is a made from a mixture of esters of glycerin, along with fatty acids behenic and eicosadioic acids. The saturated nature of these fatty acids lets this ingredient work as a thickener, giving body and texture to creams and lotions. It’s also a stabilizing agent in makeup and skin care products. Glyceryl behenate/eicosadioate may be plant-derived or synthetic.
This ingredient is often found in blends with other emollients/thickeners and stabilizers. It’s also part of some zinc oxide powder dispersions for easier incorporation into sunscreen formulas.
The independent cosmetic ingredient review has found it is safe as used in cosmetics. Use levels of glyceryl behenate/eicosadioate typically range from 0.11–4.1% when used in products such as cleansers, eyebrow pencils, eyeliner, and lipstick. Sunscreen suspension blends with this ingredient as one part are advised for use up to 34%.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Accessed August 2023, Webpage [No URL found]
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UL Prospector, Accessed August 2023 [No URL found]
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Acta Pharmaceutica, March 2015, pages 1-13 [No URL found]
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Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy, February 2011, pages 139-148 [No URL found]
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