c12-15 alkyl benzoate
what it is
A light, silky liquid ester — fatty alcohols of twelve to fifteen carbons joined to benzoic acid, an acid that also occurs naturally in fruit like cranberries. INCI name C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate. The name makes some people think of benzene; it is not benzene and does not break down into it.
why we use it
It is one of the workhorse emollients carrying our coated zinc oxide. It wets and disperses mineral particles unusually well, which matters because an even film is what makes an even SPF. It also gives a formula holding 25.00% zinc oxide a dry, light slip instead of a paste-like drag.
where you'll find it
In our mineral sunscreen (SPF 50+ PA++++), in the lightweight emollients group (30.00% total). Per-ingredient percentages within the sunscreen groups are not yet published; the group totals are exact.
evidence
This is a functional ingredient — its job is spreading, dispersion and feel, all of which are measured in formulation and SPF testing rather than claimed.
safety
Reviewed as safe as used by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel, with a long record in sunscreens and low reported rates of irritation.