Triethylhexanoin
Well toleratedEmollientemollientsolventskin conditioning
No meaningful concern for most people; irritation is possible but rare.
Also written as: Glyceryl trioctanoate · Trioctanoin
What it is
Triethylhexanoin is glycerin esterified with three units of 2-ethylhexanoic acid, producing a clear, stable liquid oil. It is closely related to caprylic/capric triglyceride and is used for the same reasons: a light, silky emollient feel, good spreading and a long shelf life, plus the ability to dissolve oil-soluble actives and pigments.
What it does well
Softens and smooths with a light, non-greasy finish
Synthetic triglyceride esters of this kind are widely used because they resist oxidation and do not go rancid the way many plant oils do.
Strong evidence
Where the EU stands
No specific restriction
No EU restriction on use or concentration in cosmetics.
