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Ethylhexyl Pelargonate

What Ethylhexyl Pelargonate is & what it does

Ethylhexyl Pelargonate is a lightweight ester formed from 2-ethylhexyl alcohol and pelargonic (nonanoic) acid. In sunscreens and moisturizers it acts as an emollient and spreading agent, giving a dry, silky slip that helps the product glide on without a greasy residue. Its low viscosity makes it a popular choice for improving the feel and spreadability of UV filters and pigments.

What does Ethylhexyl Pelargonate do in skincare?

Ethylhexyl Pelargonate is a lightweight ester used as an emollient and spreading agent. In sunscreens and moisturizers it gives a dry, silky slip that helps the product glide on without greasy residue. Its low viscosity makes it useful for improving the feel and spreadability of UV filters and pigments.

Does Ethylhexyl Pelargonate clog pores?

Ethylhexyl Pelargonate is a light, dry-finish ester often chosen to avoid heaviness, and it is not generally singled out as strongly pore-clogging. Comedogenicity can still vary between individuals, so those prone to breakouts may want to patch test. It is frequently used in lightweight sunscreen and lotion textures.

Is Ethylhexyl Pelargonate natural or synthetic?

Ethylhexyl Pelargonate is a synthetic ester, made by combining 2-ethylhexyl alcohol with pelargonic acid. The pelargonic acid can be derived from plant sources, but the finished ingredient is produced through chemical synthesis. It is best described as a synthetic, possibly partly bio-based, emollient.

Sunscreens with Ethylhexyl Pelargonate

We rate 6 sunscreens that contain it:

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