Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Assists skin in trapping moisture, allowing for a smooth, plump appearance | Enhances and thickens a formula’s texture
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate?
Pentaerythrityl tetraethylhexanoate is the tetraester of pentaerythritol, an organic polyol (a complex alcohol, such as the sugar mannitol), and 2-ethylhexanoic acid that functions as a moisturizing, binding and texture-enhancing skin care ingredient.
It assists skin in trapping moisture, allowing for balanced hydration. Beyond skin benefits, this ingredient helps to create an even, desirable formula texture.
It’s often used in cosmetics as well as skin care products due to the light, “wet” feel it leaves on skin in amounts ranging from 0.06% to 50%. As a raw material it’s a colorless, oil-soluble liquid.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed pentaerythrityl tetraethylhexanoate safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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ULProspector, Accessed November 2022, Webpage [https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/PersonalCare/Detail/4700/129972/Trivent-PE-48]
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International Journal of Toxicology, September 2015, pages 99S-112S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581815596731]
From the Clinic
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