Behenyl Alcohol
Behenyl alcohol
- Role
- A fatty alcohol that thickens the base and softens the feel on the skin.
- Catalog formulas
- 3
- Type
- Texture
- Verified
- 09.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
A fatty alcohol with 22 carbon atoms (docosan-1-ol) of plant or synthetic origin. INCI functions: viscosity controlling, emulsion stabilising, binding and emollient.
Part of a system, not a label in isolation
In the catalogue it appears in roll-ons, a dry cream and a solid deodorant balm, where it helps hold the consistency and stability of the base. It does not reduce sweating.
The CIR concluded that Behenyl Alcohol is safe in the present practices of use (1988 assessment, conclusion reaffirmed in 2005); the CIR summary table lists use concentrations of up to 50%.
It is used for texture; an individual reaction to the finished product is possible.
"Alcohol" here does not mean ethanol (Alcohol, Alcohol Denat.): behenyl alcohol is a long-chain fatty alcohol, a different substance with different functions.
Products containing Behenyl Alcohol
Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.
Sources
The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.
- EU CosIng: Behenyl Alcohol Supports: INCI functions, substance identity
- COSMILE Europe (Cosmetics Europe): Behenyl Alcohol Supports: substance description
- CIR: Quick Reference Table (summary of conclusions, 2014) Supports: safety conclusion, use concentrations