C12-15 ALKYL LACTATE
C12-15 Alkyl Lactate is a mixture of lactic-acid esters with alkyl chains containing 12 to 15 carbons. The C12-15 range means it is not a single molecule: the mixture includes closely related lactates, such as lauryl, myristyl, tridecyl, and pentadecyl lactates.
C12-15 ALKYL LACTATE: what it is
C12-15 Alkyl Lactate is a mixture of lactic-acid esters with alkyl chains containing 12 to 15 carbons. The C12-15 range means it is not a single molecule: the mixture includes closely related lactates, such as lauryl, myristyl, tridecyl, and pentadecyl lactates.
As an ester, it is different from free lactic acid. Its lactate portion is linked to a fatty chain, which changes how it behaves in a formula; the name may recall a familiar acid, but this ingredient is used as an oily-feel component rather than as an exfoliating acid on its own.
C12-15 ALKYL LACTATE: what it does in cosmetics
In cosmetics, C12-15 Alkyl Lactate is used as an emollient and skin-conditioning ingredient. In everyday terms, it can help a product spread and leave the skin feeling softer, less rough, and more comfortable to the touch after application.
That contribution comes from its physical role in the formula, not from a treatment action. It can support the texture of lotions, creams, and other leave-on skin products, but the word lactate does not support expectations of exfoliation, skin renewal, or treatment of dark spots and acne from this ingredient alone.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
