An ester of isopropyl alcohol and lauric acid, used as an emollient and binder.
What it is
Isopropyl laurate is the ester of isopropyl alcohol and lauric acid, a C12 fatty acid. CosIng lists it as a binding, emollient and skin-conditioning ingredient.
Where it is used
Found in skin care products, make-up and other products that contain oils.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
The INCI name does not reveal whether the lauric acid comes from plant or other sources.
Functions
- Binding
- Providing adhesive properties during and after compression in cosmetic tablets and/or cakes.
- Skin conditioning – emollient
- Acting as lubricants on the skin surface providing the skin with a soft and smooth appearance.
- Skin conditioning
- Maintaining the skin in good condition.
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.

