Tricetyl Phosphate

AKA: Trihexadecyl phosphate, 1-Hexadecanol, Phosphate (3:1), Tripalmityl phosphate, TRICETYL PHOSPHATE [INCI]
Synthetic
Occlusive
Not Clean
OriginDerived from phosphoric acid and cetyl alcohol, belonging to the organophosphate ester chemical family. Synthesized through esterification reaction between phosphoric acid and three cetyl alcohol molecules.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded the following 28 alkyl phosphates are safe in the present practices of use and concentration in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating...Tricetyl Phosphate...
Formula
C48H99O4P
Mol. Weight
771.30
CAS #
68814-13-1
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Plasticiser
Creates protective layer
Adds flexibility
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
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2019
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR