What Is Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate?

Learn about the skin conditioning emollient and viscosity-controlling characteristics of Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate?

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Pentaerythritol tetrastearate, also known as pentaerythrityl tetrastearate, is a type of dry powder or solid that is often used in cosmetics. It serves two main purposes: as a skin conditioner and emollient, meaning it helps to keep the skin soft and hydrated; and as a viscosity controller, which means it helps to control the thickness or texture of a product. It may come in the form of pellets or large crystals.

What is the purpose of Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate in personal care products? It is used for its skin conditioning emollient and viscosity-controlling characteristics. Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate hydrates skin to prevent dryness and adjusts the thickness of a product.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate, Pentaerythritol tetrastearate, and 2,2-Bis[(octadecanoyloxy)methyl]propane-1,3-diyl dioctadecanoate.

What Are Skin Conditioning Emollient Ingredients?

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Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate has skin conditioning emollient characteristics.

Skin conditioning emollients help improve the skin's texture and appearance while providing it with the necessary hydration to prevent dryness and flakiness. Emollients are lubricants that create a barrier on the skin's surface to trap moisture, which helps prevent dryness and dehydration.

Skin conditioning emollients are commonly found in cosmetics such as moisturizers and lotions, which significantly help maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin. Emollients are typically made from natural oils, such as coconut or jojoba, and can also contain humectants that draw moisture to the skin's surface.

What Are Viscosity-Controlling Ingredients?

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Pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate has viscosity-controlling characteristics.

Viscosity-controlling ingredients increase or decrease the thickness of a product. These ingredients are essential in creating the desired texture and consistency for cosmetic products such as lotions, creams, and serums.

Increasing the viscosity of a cosmetic product can provide a thicker and more substantial texture, making it easier to apply and providing better coverage. On the other hand, decreasing the viscosity can create a lighter, more fluid consistency, allowing for quicker absorption into the skin.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.