EWG Safety Score
What Is Heptyl Undecylenate?
Heptyl undecylenate is a castor oil-derived natural skin care ingredient that can help hydrate skin, prevent moisture loss and improve the feel of formulas by reducing the likelihood of a greasy after-feel. As a lightweight emollient, heptyl undecylenate lends skin a protective "shield," trapping moisture to further prevent trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) and hydrate. Through this, heptyl undecylenate gives skin a smooth, moisturized look. It's often used as an alternative to mineral oil or silicone.
Unlike other emollients, this derivative (known as an ester) leaves a powdery, light feel on skin, not a greasy, oil one. It's used in formulas to help mitigate the greasy feel that other hydrating emollient ingredients leave on skin. Heptyl undecylenate also serves as a solubilizer for organic sunscreen filters.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that heptyl undecylenate is safe for use in cosmetics, appearing in formulas at amounts ranging from 0.01% to 26%.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Cosmetic Science, June 2020, pages 11-19 International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020
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International Journal of Toxicology, September 2015, pages 5S-69S International Journal of Toxicology, 2015
From the Clinic
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