Isononyl isononanoate is a synthetic ingredient used in cosmetics and skincare products to improve the texture and feel of a formulation. Isononyl isononanoate is used mainly as an emollient, texture enhancer, and plasticizer.
Isononyl isononanoate can be produced by esterification of isononyl alcohol and isononanoic acid. Isononyl isononanoate has unique characteristics including extremely low freeze point, low viscosity, and excellent solubility and compatibility in a variety of ingredients such as esters, volatile silicones, mineral, and vegetable oils. Isononyl isononanoate is typically used at concentrations ranging from 2 to 10%.
Function:
In cosmetics and skincare products, isononyl isononanoate functions as an emollient, texture enhancer, and plasticizer.
Emollient
As an emollient, isononyl isononanoate is often found in creams, lotions, and facial moisturizers. Emollients work to soften and soothe the skin while also acting as occlusive agents. Occlusive ingredients form a protective film on the surface of the skin, which helps to prevent evaporation of the skin’s natural moisture. Over time, this increases skin hydration by causing a buildup of water in the uppermost layer of skin.
These same emollient properties make isononyl isononanoate an ideal ingredient for hair care products. It forms a smooth, even film on the surface of the hair that provides increased slip between adjacent hair strands, which makes detangling easier. Isononyl isononanoate further reduces tangling by smoothing and flattening the cuticle surface, which can also add shine and gloss to the hair. It leaves the hair feeling soft and silky without weighing it down or making it feel greasy.
Texture
As a texture enhancer, isononyl isononanoate offers superior spreadability and a dry touch feel. It gives skincare products a distinctive velvety feel. Furthermore, isononyl isononanoate acts as a replacement for volatile silicones in antiperspirants where it reduces tackiness and prevents clogging in aerosols.
Plasticizer
Lastly, isononyl isononanoate functions as a plasticizer. Plasticizers are materials that soften synthetic ingredients by reducing brittleness and cracking. Plasticizers are useful for cosmetic products such as nail polishes, glosses, and shampoos.
