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Tribehenin

What Tribehenin is & what it does

An emollient made from glycerin and behenic acid, a long-chain fatty acid. It softens and smooths the skin, adds richness and body to a formula, and helps stabilize creams. In sunscreen it contributes to a cushioned, comfortable feel and supports an even, lasting film.

What is Tribehenin and what does it do in sunscreen?

Tribehenin is an emollient, an ingredient that softens and smooths the skin. It is made from glycerin and behenic acid, a long-chain fatty acid, which gives it a rich, cushioning feel. In sunscreen it adds body to the formula and helps it spread into an even, comfortable film.

Is Tribehenin safe?

Yes. Tribehenin is a fatty-acid ester closely related to the lipids found in plant oils, and it has a long record of safe use as an emollient in creams and sunscreens. It stays on the skin surface and is non-irritating for most people. It is a well-tolerated, skin-softening ingredient.

Does Tribehenin clog pores?

Generally no. It is a heavier emollient, but it is widely used and not flagged as a notable pore-clogging ingredient. As with any rich emollient, very oily or acne-prone skin may prefer lighter formulas, but for most people it is a low-risk choice. If you are breaking out, look at the overall richness of the product rather than this one ingredient.

Is Tribehenin vegan?

It can be, depending on the source. Tribehenin is made from glycerin and behenic acid, and behenic acid is typically sourced from plant oils such as rapeseed or peanut, which makes a plant-based version possible. Because raw materials can vary, anyone needing a strictly vegan product should confirm the sourcing with the brand.

What else is Tribehenin called?

Tribehenin is the INCI name on the label. Chemically it is glyceryl tribehenate, the triglyceride of behenic acid, so you may see it described that way in technical documents. On an ingredient list it sits among the emollients and texture ingredients.

Sunscreens with Tribehenin

We rate 224 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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