Sodium Behenate
AKA: Sodium docosanoate, 5331-77-1, Docosanoic acid, Sodium salt, Behenic acid
Synthetic
Cleanser
Clean
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the following ingredients are safe in the present practices of use andconcentration described in the safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing, which may be basedon a QRA...Sodium Behenate...
Formula
C22H43NaO2
Mol. Weight
362.60
CAS #
5331-77-1
Form
Liquid
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Removes Impurities
Traditional Use
Behenic acid derives from sources like rapeseed oil; used historically in soap-making and traditional beauty preparations. The sodium salt form was developed as a modern emollient and thickening agent in skincare and cosmetics.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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