PRODUCTS

C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE

CAS No. : 68411-27-8
EC No. : 270-112-4

Synonyms:
Benzoic acid, C12-15 alkyl esters; C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate; C1215 Alkyl Benzoate; c1215 alkil benzoat; C12 15 alkil benzoat; C12-15 alkil benzoat; c12-15 alkil benzot; Alkyl Benzoate; lauryl benzoate; dodecyl/pentadecyl benzoate; ALKYL (C12-C15) BENZOATE; ALKYL BENZOATE; BENZOIC ACID, C12-15 ALKYL ESTERS; BENZOIC ACID, C1215ALKYL ESTERS; C12-15 ALCOHOLS BENZOATE; C12-15 ALKYL ESTERS BENZOIC ACID; Alkyl (C12-15) Benzoate [USAN]; Alkyl (C12-15) benzoate [NF]; Benzoic acid; C12-15 alkyl esters; C12-15 Alkyl benzoate; Alkyl (C12-15) Benzoate; Benzoic acid, C12-15 alkyl ester; EC 270-112-4; UNII-A9EJ3J61HQ; CAB; Benzoic acid, C12-15-alkyl esters; Benzoic acid, C12-15-alkyl esters; UNII-A9EJ3J61HQ; Lauryl Benzoate; Einecs 270-112-4; C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE; Dodecyl/pentadecyl benzoate; Alkyl (C12-15) benzoate [usan]; Benzoesure, Alkyl(C12-C15)ester; benzoic acid, c12-c15 alkyl esters; Benzoic acid, C12-15-alkyl esters; ALKYL BENZOATE; Lauryl Benzoate; Einecs 270-112-4; C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE; Dodecyl/pentadecyl benzoate; Alkyl (C12-15) benzoate [usan]; Benzoesure, Alkyl(C12-C15)ester; benzoic acid, c12-c15 alkyl esters; Benzoic acid, ALKYL BENZOATE; Lauryl Benzoate; Einecs 270-112-4; C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE; Dodecyl/pentadecyl benzoate; Alkyl (C12-15) benzoate [usan]; Benzoesure, Alkyl(C12-C15)ester; benzoic acid ,c 12-c15 alkyl esters; Benzoic acid, ALKYL BENZOATE; Lauryl Benzoate; Einecs 270-112-4; C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE; Dodecyl/pentadecyl benzoate; Alkyl (C12-15) benzoate [usan]; Benzoesure, Alkyl(C12-C15)ester; benzoic acid,Benzoic acid, CRODAMOL AB; CETIOL® AB; NEOMIN AB; Ritamollient TN; Natura-tec Ultrafeel AB; Tegosoft TN; Rofetan AB ; HEST 25B ; Dermol 25B; C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE; C12-15 ALKİL BENZOATE; C12-15 ALKİL BENZOAT; C 12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE; C 12-15 ALKİL BENZOATE; C 12-15 ALKİL BENZOAT

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is composed of benzoic acid and long-chain (C12-15) alcohols. It is a skin conditioning agent, antimicrobial and emollient for use in baby-care, bathing, shaving, sun-care products.

C12-15 alkyl benzoate is the ester of benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols. Clear liquid, practically odorless.

C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE is classified as :
Antimicrobial
Emollient
Skin conditioning

Properties of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate:
CAS Number   68411-27-8
EINECS/ELINCS No:   270-112-4
COSING REF No:   74635
Chem/IUPAC Name:   Benzoic acid, C12-15 alkyl esters

What Is C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate?
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is a mixture of benzoic acid esters that consist of benzoic acid and alcohols that have carbon chain lengths from 12 to 15.

Other long-chain alkyl benzoate ingredients that may be used in cosmetics and personal care products include C16-17 Alkyl Benzoate, Stearyl Benzoate, Isostearyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Benzoate and Octyldodecyl Benzoate.

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate and the other long-chain alkyl benzoate ingredients may be used in a wide variety of cosmetic products including baby products, bath products, eye makeup, lipstick, shaving products, suntan products, as well as hair care, nail care and skin care products.

Why is C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate used in cosmetics and personal care products?
In cosmetics and personal care products, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, C16-17 Alkyl Benzoate, Stearyl Benzoate, Isostearyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Benzoate and Octyldodecyl Benzoate function as skin-conditioning agents - emollients. C16-17 Alkyl Benzoate, Stearyl Benzoate and Ethylhexyl Benzoate may also function as solvents.

Scientific Facts of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate:
Long-chain alkyl benzoate esters, such as C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, are clear, oil soluble low viscosity liquids. When used in cosmetic products, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate provides a light conditioning and silky after touch to the skin.

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Sounds Scary Right? But Why Is C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate Used?

What Is C12-15 alkyl benzoate?
C12-15 alkyl benzoate is a synthetic ingredient that is used as an emollient and texture enhancing ingredient in a variety of cosmetics and skincare products.

C12-15 alkyl benzoate is part of a group of ingredients called alkyl benzoates. As a class of ingredient, alkyl benzoates are used to improve the stability, texture, and scent of products. C12-15 alkyl benzoate is a low molecular weight ester of benzoic acid and long-chain alcohols. Benzoic acid is a natural ingredient that can be obtained from several types of fruits and vegetables, such as cranberries, prunes, plums, cinnamon, ripe cloves, and apples. The ‘C12-15’ in the ingredient name indicates that the alcohols have carbon chain lengths from 12 to 15. C12-15 alkyl benzoate is a clear, oil-soluble liquid.

THE BREAKDOWN
C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
THE GOOD:Improves the texture and feel of the formulation.

THE NOT SO GOOD:Alkyl benzoates are considered to be non-irritating and safe for use.

WHO IS C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate FOR?All skin types except those that have an identified allergy to it.

SYNERGETIC INGREDIENTS:Works well with most ingredients

KEEP AN EYE ON:Keep an eye out for other alkyl benzoates.

Why Is C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate Used?
In cosmetics and skincare products, C12-15 alkyl benzoate functions as an emollient, texture enhancer, and antimicrobial agent. It is used in a wide variety of products, such as sunscreens, baby products, bath products, antiperspirants and deodorants, eye makeup, lipstick, foundations, and tinted moisturizers, shaving products, hair styling products, and more.

Emollient
As an emollient, C12-15 alkyl benzoate helps to keep the skin moist and supple by reducing water loss from the outer layers of the skin. Emollients form a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, trapping moisture and preventing water loss to the air. Emollients also help to improve the texture and performance of a product by acting as a lubricant. A lubricant reduces friction when anything rubs against the skin. These functions allow C12-15 alkyl benzoate to keep the skin moisturized and also help repair the appearance of the skin.

While all skin types can benefit from emollients like C12-15 alkyl benzoate, emollients are very beneficial for those who have dry, rough, and/or flaky skin. Emollients help to leave the skin looking and feeling soft and smooth. In addition, emollients may benefit those that suffer from conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or other inflammatory skin condition.

Texture of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
C12-15 alkyl benzoate can also be classified as a texture enhancer. It imparts a soft and velvety feel to the skin and has improves spreadability. C12-15 alkyl benzoate also functions as an effective thickener when added to gels, creams, and lotions. C12-15 alkyl benzoate has excellent solubility in oil and is often used in sunscreens because it helps keep the active ingredients dispersed throughout the formula.

Scent
C12-15 alkyl benzoate can be used to improve the scent of products. While C12-15 alkyl benzoate is not a direct fragrance it improves the scent by increasing the longevity of the scent in the formulation.

Anti-microbial
Research suggests that C12-15 alkyl benzoate may also have antimicrobial properties, reducing the likelihood of the growth of bacteria and mold in formulations due to contamination. However, there is limited data on which microorganisms this ingredient is effective against.

Is C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate Drying?
Since C12-15 alkyl benzoate is an ester that is composed of various long-chain alcohols, this ingredient is often misunderstood to be bad for the skin. It is true that some alcohols, like ethyl or rubbing alcohol, can be extremely drying to the skin. However, quite the opposite is true for C12-15 alkyl benzoate, which is well known to effectively condition and soften the skin and hair.

Is C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate Safe?
The safety of C12-15 alkyl benzoate and other alkyl benzoates has been assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel, a group responsible for evaluating the safety of skincare and cosmetic ingredients. Due to the low water solubility of long-chain alkyl benzoates, the Expert Panel reasoned that these ingredients were unlikely to be absorbed into the bloodstream, reducing any toxicity of immunity risks. At concentrations used in cosmetic products, C12-15 alkyl benzoate and other long-chain alkyl benzoates are not an eye or skin irritant. These compounds also don’t seem to sensitize or irritate the skin. Overall, the Expert Panel concluded that C12-15 alkyl benzoate and other alkyl benzoates are safe for use in cosmetics.

Synthetic ingredient used as an emollient and texture enhancing agent in cosmetics. This common ingredient is soluble in oil and oil-like ingredients, and can impart a lightly conditioning, silky finish to products. Its excellent solubility is one of the main reasons its used in so many sunscreens, as it helps keep the active ingredients dispersed throughout the formula.

An often used emollient with a light and silky feel. It's very mild to both skin and eyes and spreads nicely and easily. It's often used in sunscreens as it's also an excellent solvent for sunscreen agents.

C12-15 alkyl benzoate is the ester of benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols. Clear liquid, practically odorless.

What is C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate?
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is a lightweight oil soluble ester with a beautiful dry skin feel. It is made from benzoic acid and C12–15 alcohols.
INCI C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate

Appearance of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
Clear liquid

Usage rate of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
Manufacturers suggest 1–30% (The CIR does not mention a maximum usage level; tests a 100% concentration showed no reaction or irritation)

Texture of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
Smooth, thin liquid

Scent of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
Nothing noticeable

Absorbency Speed of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
Fast

Solubility of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
Oil

Why do we use C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate in formulations?
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate adds dry-touch emolliency and improves pigment dispersion in our products, making it a great choice for colour cosmetics. Its light, dry touch also makes it a great base for body oils and other anhydrous products we’d like to have a light, dry finish (it is similar to isopropyl myristate in this way).

Refined or unrefined?
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate only exists as a refined product.

Strengths
Excellent light-weight emollient that improves slip and reduces greasy feel.

Weaknesses
Not considered natural, can be harder to source.

Alternatives & Substitutions
Isopropyl myristate would probably be my first choice, or a lightweight silicone like cyclomethicone (take care not to heat volatile silicones). A very lightweight carrier oil will also work, though that will still be heavier than C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate.

How to Work with It
Include C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate in the oil phase of your formulations. It can be hot or cold processed.

Storage & Shelf Life
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate should last two years.

Tips, Tricks, and Quirks
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is sold under many different trade/brand names; be sure to check the INCI so you know what you’re buying.

Recommended starter amount
50–100mL (2–3fl oz)

Some Formulations that Use C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Nourishing Hand Rescue Lotion
Summer Glow Body Lotion
Cream Silk Cleansing Balm
Watermelon Mint Summer Body Oil
Intense Hand Rescue Cream
White Chocolate Peppermint Body Butter Bars
Cranberry Orange Body Oil
Rosé Shimmer Body Oil
Mango Mango Cleansing Oil
Cocoa Butter Shimmer Bars
Silky Cream Foundation

Description: C12-15 alkyl benzoate is a low-molecular weight ester of benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols. Clear liquid, practically odorless.
CAS: 68411-27-8
INCI Name: C12-15 alkyl benzoate

Benefits of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate:
Versatile emollient ester suitable for use in skin care, sun care and color cosmetics
Can be used to improve feel, softness and many other textural aspects
Offers excellent emolliency with added pigment-dispersing capabilities
Can be used as an effective solvent for sunscreens

Use of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate:
Can be added to formulas as is, add to oil phase. Typical use level 1-30%. For external use only.

Applications of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate:
Lotions, creams, sun products, color cosmetics.

Country of Origin: USA
Raw material source: Benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols
Manufacture: Produced from a reaction of benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols
Animal Testing: Not animal tested
GMO: Not tested for GMOs but very unlikely to contain GMOs
Vegan: Does not contain animal-derived components

The functions of C12-15 alkyl benzoates in cosmetics include fragrance ingredients, skin-conditioning agents—emollient, skin-conditioning agents—miscellaneous, preservatives, solvents, and plasticizers. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reviewed the relevant animal and human data and noted gaps in the available safety data for some of the C12-15 alkyl benzoates. Similar structure activity relationships, biologic functions, and cosmetic product usage allowed the available data of many of the C12-15 alkyl benzoates to be extended to the entire group. Carcinogenicity data were not available, but available data indicated that these C12-15 alkyl benzoate cosmetic ingredients are not genotoxic. Also benzoic acid and tested component alcohols were not reproductive or developmental toxicants, are not genotoxic in almost all assays, and are not carcinogenic. These ingredients were determined to be safe in the present practices of use and concentration.

Alkyl benzoate esters function in cosmetics as fragrance ingredients, skin-conditioning agents—emollient, skin-conditioning agents—miscellaneous, preservatives, solvents, and plasticizers. The ingredients included in this safety assessment are methyl benzoate, ethyl benzoate, propyl benzoate, butyl benzoate, amyl benzoate, lauryl/myristyl benzoate, C12-15 alkyl benzoate, C16-17 alkyl benzoate, stearyl benzoate, behenyl benzoate, isopropyl benzoate, isobutyl benzoate, isostearyl benzoate, ethylhexyl benzoate, butyloctyl benzoate, hexyldecyl benzoate, and octyldodecyl benzoate. These ingredients are esters of benzoic acid and a corresponding alcohol, with the shorter chain alkyl benzoates (methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl and amyl benzoate) ranging in molecular weight (MW) from 136 to 192 and the longer chain alkyl acetates (lauryl/myristyl, C12-15 alkyl, C16-17 alkyl, stearyl, isostearyl, behenyl, ethylhexyl, butyloctyl, hexyldecyl, and octyldodecyl benzoate) ranging in MW from 234 to 431.

Because the smaller alkyl benzoates in this report are considered likely to penetrate the skin, it should be expected that they would be metabolized in the skin to benzoic acid and the parent alcohol. Therefore, the safety of these metabolites must be considered when assessing the safety of alkyl benzoates.

Several of the metabolites of the alkyl benzoates in this assessment have been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel (benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, and the parent alcohols: methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, isostearyl alcohol). The conclusions are listed below.

The shorter chain alkyl benzoate esters are colorless liquids. Viscosity generally increases as the molecular mass (chain length) increases.9 The physical and chemical properties of the benzoates are shown in Table 2. At room temperature and pressure, methyl benzoate, ethyl benzoate, butyl benzoate, and isobutyl benzoate are fragrant, colorless oils, and are insoluble in water.10 A ultraviolet (UV) absorption spectrum of C12-15 alkyl benzoates was maximum at ∼200 and 235 nm.

Analytical Methods of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate
The benzoic esters can be analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, UV spectroscopy, and infrared (IR) spectroscopy.9,13,16 High-performance liquid chromotography (HPLC) was used to detect C12-15 alkyl benzoates.17

USE of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate

Cosmetic
According to the Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program (VCRP) administered by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the total number of uses of C12-15 alkyl benzoate was 971 (858 leave-on and 113 rinse-off products).18 A survey conducted by the Personal Care Products Council (Council) found that C12-15 alkyl benzoate was used at 0.0008% to 59% (highest concentration in tonics, dressings, and other hair grooming aids) in leave-on products and 0.0008% to 50% (highest concentration in paste masks [mud packs]) in rinse-off products (Table 3).19 There were 2 uses reported of C16-17 alkyl benzoates (bath soaps and detergents). Stearyl benzoate was reported to have 3 uses (including face and neck creams, lotions, and powders) and used at 2%. While there were no uses reported by VCRP, the Council reported methyl benzoate use at 0.0005% to 0.3% (highest concentration in perfumes), ethyl benzoate use at 0.0008% to 0.01% (highest concentration in foot powders and sprays), isobutyl benzoate use at 0.01% (perfumes), isostearyl benzoate use at 1% (body and hand creams, lotions, and powders), and octyldodecyl benzoate at 3% to 4% (highest concentration in shaving cream). No uses or concentrations of use were reported for propyl benzoate, butyl benzoate, amyl benzoate, lauryl/myristyl benzoate, behenyl benzoate, isopropyl benzoate, ethylhexyl benzoate, butyloctyl benzoate, and hexyldecyl benzoate.

C12-15 Alkyl benzoate and other benzoates are used in hair sprays and perfumes, and effects on the lungs that may be induced by aerosolized products containing these ingredients are of concern. The aerosol properties that determine deposition in the respiratory system are particle size and density. The parameter most closely associated with deposition is the aerodynamic diameter, da, defined as the diameter of a sphere of unit density possessing the same terminal settling velocity as the particle in question. In humans, particles with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤10 µm are respirable. Particles with a da from 0.1 to 10 µm settle in the upper respiratory tract and particles with a da < 0.1 µm settle in the lower respiratory tract.

Noncosmetic
Alkyl benzoate esters are typically used as solvents in paints, lacquers and coatings, and as intermediates in various chemistry processes.9 Methyl benzoate is used in flavoring and perfumery and as a solvent in resins.25 Ethyl benzoate is used in flavoring and perfumery and as a solvent in lacquers and resins.25 Butyl benzoate is used as a solvent for cellulose ether, as a plasticizer, as a perfume ingredient, and for dyeing in textiles.25 Isobutyl benzoate is used in flavoring and perfumery.25 Methyl benzoate, ethyl benzoate, propyl benzoate, isopropyl benzoate, and isobutyl benzoate have been approved by the FDA as flavors26 and have no safety concerns when used as flavoring agents.

Long chain length
In another study, C12-15 alkyl benzoate was applied neat at a dose of 4 mg/cm2 to 3 samples of gently shaved skin from the same pig.33 Total recovery after 24 hours was 82% of the applied dose, and 29% of the dose was recovered in the skin as measured by HPLC (detection limit 1.0 µg/mL). Of the material recovered, 84%, 5%, and 11%, was in the horny layer, epidermis, and dermis, respectively. None was detected in the receptor fluid.

C12-15 Alkyl benzoates applied to frozen and fresh pig skin did not penetrate the skin.34 None of the test material was detected in the receptor fluid, 50.76% was recovered in the skin, and 34.04% was still on the skin. There were benzoate compounds (<C12) present in the test material at 4.7%.

Octanol/water partition coefficient values (at pH 3.0) of 8.0, 8.6, 9.1, and 9.6 for C12 alkyl benzoate, C13 alkyl benzoate, C14 alkyl benzoate, and C15 alkyl benzoate would suggest that these longer chain length alkyl benzoates would stay in the stratum corneum and would not penetrate beyond the epidermis.35

The in vitro dermal absorption and percutaneous penetration of C12-15 alkyl benzoate from 3 product formulations in excised pig skin after 24 hours were examined. A sun lotion (with 7.5% test compound), a baby cream 5.4% (with test compound), and a sun protection spray (with 6.6% test compound) were applied at a rate of 4 mg/test/sample/cm2. Total recoveries were 90%, 88%, and 95% for 3 formulations with 21%, 34%, and 26% found in the skin. The amount in the receptor fluid and dermis for all 3 formulations was less than the detection limit. The amount of C12-15 alkyl benzoate from the sun lotion was 93.5% and 6.5% in the horny layer and epidermis, respectively. For the baby cream, the amount of recovered test substance was 91.5% and 8.6%; and for the sun protection spray, the amount of recovered test substance was 92.5% and 7.5%.

C12-15 Alkyl benzoate
Albino rats orally administered C12-15 alkyl benzoate (5.0 g/kg) exhibited no signs of toxicity over a 14-day observation period.58 At necropsy, enlarged spleens were noted.

In an acute oral study, C12-15 alkyl benzoate (up to 100%; 40 mL/kg) was administered to albino rats.59 The rats were observed for 14 days and then killed and necropsied. There was no mortality during the observation period. There were no gross internal changes.

At 30.0 g/kg, the females were described as having slight depression up to day 7. At 24 h, loss of ventral body hair and crusty, scabby skin were noted. There were no gross internal changes. At 33.0 g/kg, hair was matted and unkempt, there was a crust-like substance on the skin and hair loss. One female rat died on day 7. At 37.0 g/kg, 5 rats died. Pyloric and intestinal mucosa were reddened; lung tissue was enlarged and consolidated; and spherical lesions were observed in the lungs.

Female MNRI EOPS mice were orally administered 5000 mg/kg C12-15 alkyl benzoate and observed for 6 days.60 There were no mortalities and no clinical signs or behavior changes were observed. Weight gain was comparable to controls.

In a dermal toxicity study, C12-15 alkyl benzoate (100%; 2 g/kg) was applied to the intact skin of albino rabbits (n = 6; 3/sex) under occlusion.59 The rabbits were observed for 14 days. One male rabbit died which was considered nontreatment related. The authors concluded that C12-15 alkyl benzoate was not a toxic material.

Albino Wistar rats (n = 10) were exposed to aerosolized C12-15 alkyl benzoates (200 mg/L) for 1 hour and observed for 2 weeks.61 There were no toxic effects observed.

Isopropyl benzoate.The reported oral LD50 of isopropyl benzoate was 3730 mg/kg and 3.7 mg/kg for rats.62,63 The reported dermal LD50 of isopropyl benzoate was 20 mL/kg for rabbits.62 Dermally administered isopropyl benzoate (5 mL/kg) had no effects to rabbits (n = 2).64 There were no observed effects in rats exposed to aerosolized isopropyl benzoate (saturated vapor) for 4 hours.

In an ocular irritation test of C12-15 alkyl benzoate (1.8%-2.4%; 0.1 mL) using rabbits, the test material was administered to the eye and washed after 24 hours.58 The eyes were observed for 7 days. There was no ocular irritation in rabbits under these test conditions.

C12-15 alkyl benzoate (100%) administered to the eyes of albino New Zealand rabbits caused diffuse crimson coloration, slight swelling, and some discharge.89 The reactions were resolved in <6 days.

In an EpiOcular tissue model toxicity testing system, human-derived epidermal keratinocytes were incubated in culture medium to which C12-15 alkyl benzoate (2% or 20%; 10 µL), corn oil (negative control), and (0.3%) Triton X-100 (positive control) were added.90 Using the instructions of the test kit, it was extrapolated that C12-15 alkyl benzoate was nonirritating at 2% and 20%.

C12-15 Alkyl benzoate
In a primary dermal irritation test of C12-15 alkyl benzoate (100%; 0.5 mL), the test material was applied to the intact and abraded clipped skin of albino New Zealand rabbits (n = 6).58 The primary irritation index was 0.08. C12-15 alkyl benzoate was not a primary irritant to rabbits.

In a repeat 14-day irritation study, C12-15 alkyl benzoate (62% and 100% in corn oil; 0.5 mL) was administered to the clipped dorsal skin of New Zealand white rabbits (n = 10; 5/sex).107 Mineral oil and isopropyl myristate were used as controls. The average combined erythema and edema score/animal/day was 4.64 and 4.11 for the high and low dose of C12-15 alkyl benzoate, respectively. The scores were 2.68 and 5.40 for mineral oil and isopropyl myristate, respectively.

C12-15 alkyl benzoate (100%) administered to the skin of male albino New Zealand rabbits (n = 3) caused slight erythema and edema at 1 hour, which resolved at 24 hours.60

Human derived epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) were incubated with C12-15 alkyl benzoates (10% and 100% in corn oil; 100 µL) and Triton X-100 (1%; positive control) for 3 hours in an EpiDerm in vitro toxicity testing system.108 The test material was found to be nonirritating at both concentrations.

C12-15 Alkyl benzoate
In a guinea pig sensitization test, C12-15 alkyl benzoate (10%; 0.5 mL) was administered to the clipped backs and flanks of white male guinea pigs (n = 12) for 6 h/d under occlusion, 3 times/week for 3 weeks.61 Two challenges were performed 14 days after the last application. There were no topical or systemic reactions observed.

No data were available for reproductive and developmental toxicity of the alkyl benzoates used in cosmetics. One study on the related compound isononyl benzoate is described below, as are the available data on benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, and alcohol metabolites of alkyl benzoates.

C12-15 Alkyl benzoate
In an irritation study, C12-15 alkyl benzoate (0, 3%, 10%, 30%, and 100% in vegetable oil) was applied to the backs of participants (n = 21) under occlusion for 48 hours.177 No signs of irritation were observed at 48 and 72 hours.

In an HRIPT (n = 101) was conducted on C12-15 alkyl benzoate (100%),173 no visible reactions to the test substance were observed.

An HRIPT (n = 48) was conducted on C12-15 alkyl benzoate (20% in corn oil).184 Induction consisted of 10 applications under occlusion over 3.5 weeks. The challenge was applied ∼14 days after last application on a naive site. There were no signs of irritation or sensitization.

The total number of uses of C12-15 alkyl benzoate was 971 (858 leave-on and 113 rinse-off products) at concentrations up to 59% and 50% in leave-on and rinse-off products, respectively. The highest concentrations of use for C16-17 alkyl benzoates, stearyl benzoate, behenyl benzoate, ethyl benzoate, isobutyl benzoate, isostearyl benzoate, methyl benzoate, and octyldodecyl benzoate were reported to be from 0.01% to 4%. No uses or concentrations of use were reported for propyl benzoate, butyl benzoate, amyl benzoate, lauryl/myristyl benzoate, isopropyl benzoate, ethylhexyl benzoate, butyloctyl benzoate, and hexyldecyl benzoate.

Benzoate esters are metabolized into benzoic acid and the corresponding alcohols. Benzoic acid is further metabolized to benzoyl glucuronide and benzoyl CoA. The benzoyl CoA is metabolized to hippuric acid, the principal metabolite excreted in the urine.

Methyl benzoate, ethyl benzoate, propyl benzoate, and butyl benzoate did penetrate the skin. C12-15 alkyl benzoate did not detectably penetrate through the skin but did penetrate into the skin.

Methyl benzoate was cytotoxic to HeLa cells at 683.30 mmol/L, A flavus at 2.5 mg/mL, A parasiticus at 5.0 mg/mL, and lung fibroblasts at 25 mmol/L. Ethyl benzoate was cytotoxic to Hep-2 cells and lung fibroblasts at 289 mg/L. Propyl benzoate and butyl benzoate were cytotoxic to Hep-2 cells at 122 mg/L and 61 mg/L, respectively.

The oral LD50 of methyl benzoate was 2170 mg/kg for rabbits, 4100 mg/kg for guinea pigs, 1350 to 3500 mg/kg for rats, and 3000 to 3330 mg/kg for mice. The oral LD50 of ethyl benzoate was 2630 mg/kg for rabbits and 2100 to 6480 mg/kg for rats. The oral LD50 of butyl benzoate was 5140 mg/kg for female rats. Orally administered C12-15 alkyl benzoate was not toxic to rats at 5000 g/kg. The oral LD50 for isopropyl benzoate was 3730 mg/kg and 3685 mg/kg for isobutyl benzoate in rats.

The dermal LD50 of methyl benzoate was >2000 mg/kg for rabbits. Dermally administered ethyl benzoate at 10% caused no effects to mice and calves; at 100% it was lethal to cats. Dermally administered butyl benzoate caused diarrhea in rabbits at 5000 g/kg. C12-15 alkyl benzoate, at 100% or 2 mg/kg, was not dermally toxic to rabbits. The dermal LD50 of isopropyl benzoate was 20 mg/kg for rabbits. Isobutyl benzoate was not toxic to rabbits when administered dermally.

Methyl benzoate, ethyl benzoate, butyl benzoate, and isopropyl benzoate were rated as grade 1 ocular irritants at 100% when using rabbits. In in vivo tests, C12-15 alkyl benzoate was a mild ocular irritant at 100%. Isopropyl benzoate was rated as nonirritant to mild ocular irritant at 100% as was isostearyl benzoate at 0.95% in in vitro tests.

Methyl benzoate, ethyl benzoate, propyl benzoate, and butyl benzoate at 100% were dermally irritating to rabbits. C12-15 alkyl benzoate was a mild dermal irritant to rabbits at 100% and was found to be irritating in an in vitro test.

In guinea pigs, methyl benzoate up to 10%, ethyl benzoate up to 8%, amyl benzoate up to 6%, C12-15 alkyl benzoate up to 10%, and isobutyl benzoate up to 2% were nonsensitizing to guinea pigs.

One oral study of the related compound isononyl benzoate resulted in a slight decrease in mean pup weight and consequently in litter weight in high-dose females at birth and on day 4 postpartum. The NOAEL was 1000 mg/kg/d.

In Ames tests, methyl benzoate, ethyl benzoate, and C12-15 alkyl benzoate were not genotoxic. Isononyl benzoate administered orally at 2000 mg/kg to rats did not induce micronuclei in the polychromatic erythrocytes. Ethylhexyl benzoate was not an ocular irritant to humans in a sunscreen at 3.5%.

Methyl benzoate was not dermally irritating to humans at 4%. Ethyl benzoate and butyl benzoate were not dermally irritating to humans at 8%. C12-15 Alkyl benzoate was not irritating at 100%. Isobutyl benzoate was nonirritating at 2% as was ethylhexyl benzoate at 3.5%.

In HIRPTs and maximization studies, methyl benzoate and ethyl benzoate at 0.5%, C12-15 alkyl benzoate at 100%, stearyl benzoate at 2%, isobutyl benzoate at 2%, isostearyl benzoate at 0.95%, ethylhexyl benzoate at 3.5%, and octyldodecyl benzoate at 0.4% were not sensitizing. Methyl benzoate at 0.1% and ethylhexyl benzoate at 3.5% were not phototoxic to humans.

The CIR Expert Panel noted the shorter chain length C12-15 alkyl benzoates penetrated the skin and resulting in systemic exposure. Less clear was the dermal penetration of long chain length C12-15 alkyl benzoates. C12-15 alkyl benzoates, which have octanol/water partition coefficient values above 8, are not expected to leave the stratum corneum and reach the epidermis. However, 5% to 8% of C12-15 alkylbenzoate applied in 3 different product formulations was reported to penetrate the epidermis of pig skin in vitro.

The Panel reasoned that the data indicating moderate penetration of C12-15 alkyl benzoates into the epidermis suggested the need for a conservative approach that would consider the potential for systemic exposure to long chain length C12-15 alkyl benzoates. C12-15 alkyl benzoates are largely nontoxic, but, given that these ingredients may penetrate the skin, they may be cleaved and result in systemic exposure to the component alcohol and benzoic acid. Component alcohols may be toxic at high levels, for example, so the Panel considered available data on the parent compounds and on benzoic acid and component alcohols. While data were not available on reproductive/developmental toxicity of C12-15 alkyl benzoates used in cosmetics, one study on the structurally similar isononyl benzoate demonstrated an absence of reproductive/developmental toxicity.

The Panel noted that carcinogenicity data were not available for C12-15 alkyl benzoates, but that available data indicated that these C12-15 alkyl benzoate cosmetic ingredients are not genotoxic and are not dermal sensitizers. In addition, available data demonstrate that benzoic acid and tested component alcohols are not reproductive or developmental toxicants, are not genotoxic in almost all assays, and are not carcinogenic. The Panel considered, therefore, that the low levels at which most C12-15 alkyl benzoates are used would not result in any significant systemic toxicity for their metabolites; C12-15 C12-15 alkyl benzoates, which can be used at a higher concentration is poorly absorbed through the skin and therefore would not likely cause systemic toxicity.

Several of the shorter chain length C12-15 alkyl benzoates were cytotoxic at high doses and dermal irritants in animal tests but were not significant irritants in clinical tests. Due to the lack of irritation by the shorter chain length C12-15 alkyl benzoates at use concentrations when used in cosmetic formulations, C12-15 alkyl benzoates are not expected to result in any cytotoxicity.

While plants are the source of some components in the ingredients of this report, they result from significant processing, and as such are not expected to contain residual pesticides or heavy metals.

Certain of the C12-15 alkyl benzoates are used in cosmetic products that may be inhaled during their use. In practice, however, the particle sizes produced by cosmetic aerosols are not respirable.

What Is C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate?
C12-15 Alkyl Benozate is a mixture of benzoic acid esters that consist of benzoic acid and alcohols that have carbon chain lengths from 12 to 15.

Why is C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate used in cosmetics and personal care products?
In cosmetics and personal care products, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, C16-17 Alkyl Benzoate, Stearyl Benzoate, Isostearyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Benzoate and Octyldodecyl Benzoate function as skin-conditioning agents - emollients. C16-17 Alkyl Benzoate, Stearyl Benzoate and Ethylhexyl Benzoate may also function as solvents.

Scientific Facts:
Long-chain alkyl benzoate esters, such as C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, are clear, oil soluble low viscosity liquids. When used in cosmetic products, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate provides a light conditioning and silky after touch to the skin.

Product description of C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate:

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is used in a wide range of applications for personal care formulation due to its very good proprieties as emollient, solubilizer and lubricant:
•Emollient for bath oil, body oil and cream. It is always suggest to avoid the oily feeling which are typically produced by miner oil and isopropylmiristate.
•Solubilizer for perfumes
•Lubricant and emollient in skin lotion for electrical shave cream
•Emollient and aluminium salts suspending agent for anti-transpirants and titanium dioxide solar creams.

This ingredient is composed of benzoic acid and long-chain (C12-15) alcohols .

Properties of C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate:
Versatile emollient ester suitable for use in skin care, sun care and color cosmetics. This light ester offers excellent emolliency with added pigment-dispersing
capabilities. In sun care, it can be used as an effective solvent for sunscreens.

Function(s) of C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate:
Mainly used as an emollient and thickening agent. Many cosmetic products contain this ingredient because it provides a light conditioning and silky after touch to the skin and hair.
It's also been shown to act as an antimicrobial agent and a preservative, particularly in products containing UV absorbers. You may find this ingredient in a variety of cosmetics
such as sunscreen, facial moisturizer, anti-aging treatments, shampoo/conditioner, body wash, self tanner, eye cream, foundation and deodorant.

C12-15 Alkyl Benozate is a mixture of benzoic acid esters that consist of benzoic acid and alcohols that have carbon chain lengths from 12 to 15.

Mainly used as an emollient and thickening agent. Many cosmetic products contain this ingredient because it provides a light conditioning and silky after touch to the skin and hair.
It's also been shown to act as an antimicrobial agent and a preservative, particularly in products containing UV absorbers. You may find this ingredient in a variety of cosmetics such as sunscreen, facial moisturizer, anti-aging treatments, shampoo/conditioner, body wash, self tanner, eye cream, foundation and deodorant.

Other long-chain alkyl benzoate ingredients that may be used in cosmetics and personal care products include C16-17 Alkyl Benzoate, Stearyl Benzoate,
Isostearyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Benzoate and Octyldodecyl Benzoate.

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate and the other long-chain alkyl benzoate ingredients may be used in a wide variety of cosmetic products including baby products, bath products, eye makeup,
lipstick, shaving products,
suntan products, as well as hair care, nail care and skin care products.

In cosmetics and personal care products, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, C16-17 Alkyl Benzoate, Stearyl Benzoate, Isostearyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Benzoate and Octyldodecyl Benzoate function
as skin-conditioning agents - emollients. C16-17 Alkyl Benzoate, Stearyl Benzoate and Ethylhexyl Benzoate may also function as solvents.

Molecular Formula of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate:    C19H30O2
Molecular Weight of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate:    290.444
CAS Number of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate:    68411-27-8

C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is composed of benzoic acid and long-chain (C12-15) alcohols. It is a skin conditioning agent, antimicrobial and emollient for use in baby-care, bathing, shaving, sun-care products.
C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE is classified as :
Antimicrobial
Emollient
Skin conditioning
CAS Number    68411-27-8
EINECS/ELINCS No:    270-112-4
COSING REF No:    74635
Chem/IUPAC Name:    Benzoic acid, C12-15 alkyl esters

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate

C12-15 alkyl benzoate is the ester of benzoic acid and C12-15 alcohols. Clear liquid, practically odorless.

C12-15 alkyl benzoate
Rating of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate: GOOD
Categories of C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoate: Texture Enhancer, Emollients
Synthetic ingredient used as an emollient and texture enhancing agent in cosmetics. This common ingredient is soluble in oil and oil-like ingredients, and can impart a lightly conditioning, silky finish to products. C 12 15 Alkyl Benzoates excellent solubility is one of the main reasons its used in so many sunscreens, as it helps keep the active ingredients dispersed throughout the formula.