murphyPentaerythrityl Tetrabehenate/Benzoate/Ethylhexanoate
AKA: Pentaerythritol Ester
Synthetic
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Hair Care
Not Clean
OriginSynthesized from pentaerythritol, a polyol compound derived from acetaldehyde and formaldehyde, combined with benzoic acid and fatty acids. Produced through esterification reactions where hydroxyl groups on pentaerythritol are chemically bonded to the three different carboxylic acids.
2,2-Dihydroxymethylpropane-1,3-diol, tetraesters with docosanoic acid, benzoic acid and 2-ethylhexanoic acid
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Hair 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-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Skin Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 585)
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 585)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on2–16%
Rinse-off0.5%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2015
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR