murphyStearyl Heptanoate
AKA: Octadecyl heptanoate, 66009-41-4, Heptanoic acid, Octadecyl ester, Tegosoft SH
Plant-Derived
Emollient
Skin Conditioner
Clean
OriginDerived from fatty acids and heptanoic acid, both synthetically produced through petrochemical processes. Synthesized through esterification, combining stearyl alcohol with heptanoic acid using catalytic methods.
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 #
66009-41-4
Form
Liquid
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-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed5 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
6 studies / 6 not sensitizing (CIR 23 and 623)
Mixed Comedogenicity Results
Both comedogenic and non-comedogenic results in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 23 and 623)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
4 studies / 1 irritating / 3 not irritating (CIR 23 and 564)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
4 studies / 1 irritating / 2 mixed / 1 not irritating / reactions mild (CIR 23)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.6–11%
Rinse-off2–7%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2012 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR