A branched fatty acid also found on the surface of hair, used for hair conditioning.
What it is
Methylarachidic acid is 18-methyleicosanoic acid (18-MEA), a branched-chain fatty acid with 21 carbon atoms. It is the main fatty acid bound to the outer surface of the hair cuticle. CosIng lists it as a hair-conditioning ingredient.
Where it is used
Found in a small number of hair care products, such as shampoos and conditioners.
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 how it was produced.
Functions
- Hair conditioning
- Enhancing the appearance and feel of hair. Leaving the hair easy to comb, supple, soft and shiny and/or imparting volume, lightness, gloss, texture, etc.
EU regulation
This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.