Isoamyl Laurate
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Lauric Acid, 3-Methylbutyl Dodecanoate, Isopentyl Dodecanoate, Isopentyl Laurate
Skin-softening emollient that imparts a lightweight, velvety feel | Enhances the spreadability of a formula
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EWG Safety Score
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What Is Isoamyl Laurate?
Isoamyl laurate is the ester of isoamyl alcohol and lauric acid. This plant- or synthetic-based texture-enhancing ingredient feels velvety-soft and is used to help keep pigments dispersed in makeup products such as foundations. It also enhances the spreadability of skin care products and can be found in hair conditioners.
Isoamyl laurate is sometimes touted as a natural alternative to silicones, thanks to its lightweight, smoothing sensation. (But for the record, silicones are perfectly fine skin care ingredients, so you don’t need to avoid them.)
As a raw material, isoamyl laurate is described as having an oily liquid appearance.
According to the 2015 Cosmetic Ingredient Review assessment of isoamyl laurate, this ingredient was deemed safe in current cosmetic practices of use up (when formulated to be nonirritating).
uses the plant-derived, 100% natural form of this ingredient.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, September 2015, pages 5S-69S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581815594027]
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Cossma, April 2015, pages 12-15 [URL Not Found]
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