Hexyl Acetate
What Hexyl Acetate is & what it does
Hexyl Acetate is the ester of hexyl alcohol and acetic acid, a small fruity-smelling molecule. In cosmetics and some sunscreen formulas it can act as a solvent and a fragrance or flavor component. A notable property is its light, volatile character, which lends a fresh top note and can help thin or carry other ingredients.
What does Hexyl Acetate do in skincare?
Hexyl Acetate is a small, fruity-smelling ester used mainly as a solvent and as a fragrance or flavor component. In a formula it can help carry or thin other ingredients and contribute a fresh scent. It does not act as a sunscreen filter or skincare active.
Is Hexyl Acetate safe?
Hexyl Acetate is used in cosmetics and as a flavor and fragrance material at the low levels typical for such uses. Because it is a fragrance-type ingredient, people sensitive to fragrance components may prefer to avoid it. Patch testing is a sensible step if you are fragrance-sensitive.
Is Hexyl Acetate natural or synthetic?
Hexyl Acetate occurs naturally in some fruits but is also commonly made synthetically for consistent quality. The ingredient in a product may be either nature-identical or plant-sourced. The label or manufacturer can confirm the specific source used.
Sunscreens with Hexyl Acetate
We rate 8 sunscreens that contain it:
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EVER Skincare Daylight Radiance Tinted Moisturizer SPF 32
83/100
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Coola Full Spectrum 360° Mineral Sun Silk Moisturizer Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 30
72/100
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Bare Republic Mineral Face Gel Lotion Spf 30
70/100
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Bare Republic Mineral Body Gel Sunscreen Lotion - SPF 30
70/100
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Bare Republic Mineral Sunscreen Gel-lotion SPF 30
70/100
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Coola Classic Face Organic Sunscreen Lotion Spf 30 - Cucumber
68/100
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Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Setting Mist Sunscreen SPF 50
66/100
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Thinkbaby SPF 30 Sunscreen Stick
58/100