2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)

adultsSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this safe for adults to use Hexyldecanol?

YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 1 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Hexyldecanol is generally considered safe for adults when used in topical products. Adults generally have higher tolerance.

ℹ️General Overview

For grown-ups, hexyldecanol is usually low risk when used on the skin. It’s a common ingredient to soften skin. Most data show low concern, but there are a few signals to be aware of.

What to Do

If you’re an adult trying a product with hexyldecanol: do a small patch test first (apply a little on the inner forearm, wait 24–48 hours). Stop use if you get redness, itching, or a rash. Avoid putting it on broken skin. If you use products with it over large areas every day for a long time and you’re worried, consider rotating products or using it less often.

⚠️Warnings

Watch for skin irritation or allergic reactions — one published case report (2008) linked hexyldecanol to severe dermatitis. A national toxicology review notes that possible hormone-related effects are not well assessed (National Toxicology Program). A European chemicals agency reports the ingredient may build up in people (European Chemicals Agency). A Canadian agency says it is not expected to be toxic but flags possible environmental concerns (Environment Canada). If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of sensitive skin, talk with your healthcare provider before regular use.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Builds Up: The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) notes the ingredient is suspected or measured to accumulate in people. That means it can stay in the body over time after repeated use.
Absorbed: Because ECHA found evidence the ingredient can accumulate in people, it is likely able to get past the skin and into the body when used topically.
Irritant: A published human case report from 2008 describes severe skin inflammation caused by hexyldecanol, showing it can cause strong local skin reactions in some people.
Eczema: The same clinical report described dermatitis severe enough to mimic other conditions, which means this ingredient can trigger or worsen eczema-like skin problems in sensitive users.
Immune system: A documented human case of dermatitis suggests the ingredient can provoke allergic or immune reactions in some people (case report, 2008).
Environmental: Environment Canada flagged the ingredient as a suspected environmental toxin, indicating possible harm to wildlife or ecosystems if it is released into the environment.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)

This ingredient may also be listed as:

hexyldecanolEINECS 219-370-1JARCOL I 16NJCOL 160BR2-OCTYL-1-OCTANOLQ27251672ISOFOL 16NSC 2399ACMC-20ANTVNJCOL 160BRARILANIT G 16

Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.

Products Containing 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) or its alternative names.

Common Questions About 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)

Is this safe for adults to use 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)?

Yes, 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) is generally considered safe for adults based on current research.

What are the builds up risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for adults?

Builds up in the body over time with repeated use.

What are the absorbed risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for adults?

Can be absorbed through the skin and get into the bloodstream.

What are the irritant risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for adults?

Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin.

What are the eczema risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for adults?

Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions.

What are the immune system risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for adults?

Could weaken or confuse immune system.

What are the environmental risks of 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) for adults?

Possible negative effects on the environment

What products contain 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)?

2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol) is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.

When can adults using products with 2-Hexyldecanol (aka hexyldecyl alcohol)?

The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for adults. Use the age selector above to check other ages.

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