What is Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate?
Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate, also known as 9-Octadecenoic acid, 12-(benzoyloxy)-, hexadecyl ester, (9Z, 12R)-, is a synthetic ingredient used in the cosmetic industry. It is derived from the esterification of cetyl alcohol and ricinoleic acid benzoate. This compound is a fatty acid ester, which means it is composed of a fatty acid and an alcohol. In this case, the fatty acid is ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid found in castor oil, and the alcohol is cetyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol.
The use of Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate in cosmetics can be traced back to the mid-20th century when the cosmetic industry began to explore the benefits of fatty acid esters for skin conditioning and antimicrobial properties. The process of making Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate involves the reaction of cetyl alcohol with ricinoleic acid benzoate under specific conditions to form the ester.
There are several other fatty acid esters used in cosmetics for similar purposes, such as Isopropyl Myristate and Glyceryl Stearate. However, Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate stands out due to its unique antimicrobial properties, which not all fatty acid esters possess. This makes it an excellent choice for products that require both skin conditioning and antimicrobial effects.
Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers and serums. Its skin conditioning properties make it a popular choice for products designed to hydrate and soften the skin, while its antimicrobial properties help to preserve the product and protect the skin from harmful bacteria.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate:
Antimicrobial Properties
Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate is known for its antimicrobial properties. In layman’s terms, this means it can help to kill or slow down the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. This is particularly useful in cosmetics as it can help to prevent the product from spoiling and extend its shelf life. It also means that when applied to the skin, it can help to protect against harmful microorganisms that can cause skin infections and breakouts.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate is its skin conditioning properties. This means it helps to soften and smooth the skin, making it feel more comfortable and look more youthful. It achieves this by forming a barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps to retain moisture and prevent dryness. This makes it a valuable ingredient in a range of cosmetic products, from moisturizers and lotions to makeup and hair care products.
Please note that the benefits listed above are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, it’s important to remember that the effectiveness of a cosmetic product depends not just on one ingredient, but on the formulation as a whole.
Safety Profile
Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary, and it is always recommended to patch test a new product before widespread usage.
While Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate has antimicrobial and skin conditioning properties, it is not known to cause any significant side effects. However, potential side effects of topical application may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivity to the ingredient
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently a lack of data regarding the safety of topical usage of Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Cetyl Ricinoleate Benzoate are not common, but it is always recommended to patch test a new product before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
