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Behenic Acid

What Behenic Acid is & what it does

A long-chain fatty acid used to thicken and add a rich, smooth body to creams. It also conditions the skin surface.

What does Behenic Acid do in skincare?

Behenic Acid is a long-chain fatty acid used as a thickener and texture agent. In creams and sunscreens it can add body, help stabilize emulsions, and contribute a smooth, conditioned feel. It works on texture and consistency rather than as an active.

Is Behenic Acid comedogenic?

Behenic Acid is a fatty acid, and pore-clogging potential for fatty acids varies with how much is used and the rest of the formula. It is typically added at modest levels for texture, not as a heavy oil. If you are acne-prone, lighter products may suit your skin better.

Is Behenic Acid natural or synthetic?

Behenic Acid occurs naturally in some plant oils, such as those from the ben (Moringa) tree and certain seeds. For cosmetics it can be sourced from plant oils or produced through controlled manufacturing. So it may be plant-derived or made to a consistent spec depending on the supplier.

Sunscreens with Behenic Acid

We rate 35 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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