Ethylhexyl Isononanoate

AKA: 2-Ethylhexyl 3, 5, 5-trimethylhexanoate, Dragoxat 89, Hexanoic acid, 2-ethylhexyl ester, DUB INO, Isononanoic acid, PELEMOL 89, 2-ethylhexyl isopelargonate
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Clean
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
C17H34O2
Mol. Weight
270.50
CAS #
71566-49-9
Form
Liquid
State
Liquid
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic ester developed for cosmetics in the late 20th century. Functions as a lightweight emollient and solvent in sunscreens, oils, and lightweight skincare products.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️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