Common Name(s): Peg-9 butyloctanoate,peg-9 butyloctanoic acid (branched c12) ester,polyethylene glycol-9 butyloctanoic acid (branched c12) ester

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend together in creams and lotions while conditioning and moisturizing skin.

Why It's Used: Selected for hlb ~8–10 o/w emulsification and skin conditioning; the butyloctanoic acid (branched c12) chain provides natural affinity with skin lipids.

How It Works: 9 eo units give hlb ~8–10; butyloctanoic acid (branched c12) tail provides oil-phase anchoring and skin conditioning; nonionic character enables broad ph compatibility and electrolyte tolerance.

Typically Found In: O/w emulsions,creams,lotions,skin conditioning products

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emulsifier

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,surfactant,moisturizing

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Butyloctanoic acid synthetic (2-butyl-1-octanol + acid); eo from petrochemical.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated. peg-based; trace 1,4-dioxane concern for certified organic use.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Emollients,humectants,fatty alcohols,other peg emulsifiers

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Peg-9 esters of butyloctanoic acid (branched c12) provide hlb ~8–10, appropriate for o/w emulsification and/or solubilization depending on oil phase. branched c12 ester peg-9; non-greasy due to branching; hlb ~8-10.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,specialchem formulations