murphyCetyl Isononanoate
AKA: Hexadecyl isononanoate, Isononanoic acid, Hexadecyl ester
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Clean
OriginSynthesized from fatty alcohols and isononanoic acid, members of the ester chemical family. Produced through esterification reaction between cetyl alcohol and isononanoic acid under controlled 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
C25H50O2
Mol. Weight
382.70
CAS #
84878-33-1
Form
Liquid
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-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR