Soothing

Isononyl Isononanoate

One of the lightest synthetic esters in cosmetics — isononyl isononanoate provides an exclusively dry, non-sticky feel and absorbs very quickly. A standard component in light summer creams, sunscreens, and sports cosmetics.

dry-feelesterlight textureSPF formulas

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Isononyl Isononanoate is a synthetic ester of isononyl alcohol and isononanoic acid. In INCI: Isononyl Isononanoate. Both components have a branched structure, giving the ester extraordinary lightness and low greasiness among many synthetic esters. A colorless liquid with minimal odor and very low viscosity.

A light emollient and solvent in sunscreens (especially SPF 50+), sports cosmetics, fluid body lotions, and mineral makeup. Useful in formulas where it is necessary to reduce greasiness and speed up product distribution.

Key Benefits

✦

Exclusively dry, non-sticky feel.

Isononyl isononanoate provides the driest feel among esters — practically no residue and stickiness. A standard in children's SPF products and sports sunscreens, where it is important that the product does not run off during sweating.

◈

Quick spreading and light finish.

Low viscosity and surface tension ensure quick spreading and easier distribution of the formula. In mineral SPFs, it can reduce the feeling of heaviness, but the white cast depends on the type, particle size, and concentration of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

✧

Solvent for chemical UV filters.

Effectively dissolves avobenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate. Due to its branched structure, it stabilizes avobenzone better than linear esters — important for broad-spectrum SPF formulas.

Suitable for

for all skin types.for oily skin.for active recreation.

Main Actions

✓ dry-feel emollient.✓ dissolving UV filters.✓ quick absorption.

A light finish does not guarantee non-comedogenicity.

Isononyl Isononanoate often makes SPF and fluids feel less greasy to the touch, but tolerance for acne-prone skin depends on the entire oil phase, filters, waxes, and silicones. It is important to evaluate the finished formula, not just one ester in the INCI list.

CategorySoothing Ingredients

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