Behenyl Alcohol

Behenyl Alcohol is a C22 saturated fatty alcohol derived primarily from vegetable oils through hydrogenation of behenic acid. Its exceptionally long carbon chain makes it one of the highest molecular weight fatty alcohols used in cosmetics, resulting in a hard, waxy solid at room temperature with a higher melting point (around 71°C) than shorter-chain alcohols. Formulators choose it specifically for its superior barrier-enhancing properties and ability to create rich, substantive textures in creams and conditioners, while its crystalline structure provides excellent structural stability and water resistance to formulations.