murphyBehenyl Behenate
AKA: Docosyl docosanoate, Docosanoic acid, Docosyl ester, Docosanyl docosanoate, Docosyl behenate, Pelemol BB, Starfol BB
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Clean
OriginDerived from behenic acid, a saturated fatty acid found in plant oils like rapeseed and moringa seed oil. Synthesized through esterification of behenic acid with behenic alcohol under controlled heat and catalytic conditions.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the alkyl esters, listed subsequently, are safe in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating.
Formula
C44H88O2
Mol. Weight
649.20
CAS #
17671-27-1
Form
Liquid
State
Other Solid; Dry Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Locks In Moisture
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR