Rate My SPF

C12-15 Alcohols

What C12-15 Alcohols is & what it does

C12-15 Alcohols are a blend of fatty alcohols with carbon chain lengths from 12 to 15. In skincare and sunscreen formulas they function as emollients and thickeners, giving products a richer texture and helping condition the skin surface. Unlike drying volatile alcohols, these long-chain fatty alcohols are non-stripping and help stabilize emulsions.

What does C12-15 Alcohols do in skincare?

C12-15 Alcohols are a blend of fatty alcohols that work as emollients and thickeners. In skincare and sunscreen formulas they give a richer, smoother texture, help condition the skin surface, and contribute to a stable emulsion. They are not the drying type of alcohol.

Does C12-15 Alcohols clog pores?

C12-15 Alcohols are fatty alcohols used as emollients and are generally considered low risk for clogging pores at the levels used in formulas. Individual skin varies, so very acne-prone users may want to monitor how their skin responds. Patch testing can help if you are unsure.

Is C12-15 Alcohols natural or synthetic?

C12-15 Alcohols can be sourced from natural fats and oils, such as coconut or palm, or produced synthetically. In both cases they are fatty alcohols and are very different from the volatile, drying alcohols.

Sunscreens with C12-15 Alcohols

We rate 8 sunscreens that contain it:

← All ingredients