INCI: Heptyl Undecylenate

Heptyl undecylenate is an ester derived from castor oil, specifically formed by the reaction of heptyl alcohol and undecylenic acid. In skincare, it’s often used as an emollient, helping to smooth and soften the skin. It is a silicon alternative that increases the spreadability and gives a soft skin feel.

Some of its key characteristics include:

• Moisturizing without greasiness: Heptyl undecylenate provides a light, dry feel on the skin, which is why it’s popular in formulations aiming for a non-greasy finish.
• Good spreadability: It helps products spread more easily and evenly on the skin.
• Natural origin: Since it’s derived from castor oil, it aligns with the trend toward using more naturally sourced ingredients in skincare.

It’s generally well-suited for formulations meant to be lightweight and fast-absorbing, which makes it popular in many natural and holistic skincare products.