murphyCetyl Lactate
AKA: 35274-05-6, Hexadecyl lactate, Propanoic acid, Hexadecyl ester, N-Hexadecyl lactate, UNIESTER LC, CETINOL LA, DERMOL CL, DUB LC
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
OriginSynthesized from cetyl alcohol and lactic acid, both derived from natural or synthetic sources. Produced through esterification, combining cetyl alcohol with lactic acid under controlled chemical conditions.
Based on the available information included in this report, the CIR Expert Panel concludes that Glycolic and Lactic Acid, their common salts and their simple esters, are safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations less than or equal to 10%, at final formulation pH greater than or equal to 3.5, when formulated to avoid increasing sun sensitivity or when directions for use include the daily use of sun protection. These ingredients are safe for use in salon products at concentrations less than or equal to 30%, at final formulation pH greater than or equal to 3.0, in products designed for brief, discontinuous use followed by thorough rinsing from the skin, when applied by trained professionals, and when application is accompanied by directions for the daily use of sun protection...Cetyl Lactate...
Solubility Practically insoluble or insoluble in water
Formula
C19H38O3
Mol. Weight
314.50
CAS #
35274-05-6
Form
Liquid
State
White solid; Faint fatty butter-like aroma
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
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.
EWG
5
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
5 studies / 5 not sensitizing (CIR 34 and 243)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
4 studies / 2 irritating / 1 mixed / 1 not irritating / reactions minimal to mild (CIR 34 and 243)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
9 studies / 3 irritating / 2 mixed / 4 not irritating / reactions minimal to mild (CIR 34 and 243)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.5–10.2%
Rinse-off0.015–1.2%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2013 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR