1-Icosanol

Overview of 1-Icosanol, its properties, and applications

1-Icosanol - - - - - - -

Data sourced from verified databases

1-Icosanol, also known as eicosanol or arachidyl alcohol, is a long-chain fatty alcohol with the chemical formula C₁₀H₄₂O. It is a white, waxy solid at room temperature and is primarily used in the cosmetics and personal care industry as an emollient and thickening agent.

Chemical Structure and Properties

1-Icosanol is a saturated fatty alcohol with a 20-carbon chain. Its structure can be represented as CH₃(CH₂)₁₈CH₂OH. The presence of the hydroxyl group (-OH) at the terminal carbon makes it an alcohol, and its long hydrocarbon chain contributes to its waxy texture and hydrophobic properties.

Applications

1-Icosanol is widely used in the formulation of cosmetics and personal care products such as creams, lotions, and hair conditioners. Its primary function is to act as an emollient, providing a smooth and soft texture to the skin and hair. Additionally, it serves as a thickening agent, enhancing the viscosity and stability of emulsions.

In the pharmaceutical industry, 1-Icosanol is sometimes used as an excipient in the formulation of topical medications due to its ability to enhance the penetration of active ingredients through the skin.

Production

1-Icosanol is typically derived from natural sources such as coconut oil and palm kernel oil through the process of hydrogenation. It can also be synthesized through the reduction of arachidic acid, a saturated fatty acid.

Safety and Environmental Impact

1-Icosanol is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. It is non-toxic and non-irritating to the skin. However, as with many chemical compounds, it is important to assess its environmental impact. Being a long-chain alcohol, it is biodegradable, but its production from palm oil raises concerns about deforestation and sustainability.

Also see

• Fatty alcohols
• Emollient
• Cosmetic chemistry
• Saturated fatty acids