Ingredient review
Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate
INCI: Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate
A gentle, non-greasy emollient derived from castor oil that helps products glide on smoothly and keeps skin feeling soft.
In plain English
Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is a modified form of castor oil. It is used in cosmetics to make products feel silky and spread easily on the skin without leaving a heavy or sticky residue. Think of it as a lightweight moisturizing ingredient that also helps other ingredients blend together nicely.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is a semi-synthetic ester made by chemically modifying ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid found in castor oil. The modification improves its stability and gives it a very light, non-oily feel.
How it works
It sits on the surface of the skin, forming a thin, breathable film that reduces water loss and makes the skin feel smooth. In lip products, it helps create a glossy, even finish without being tacky.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike heavy oils, Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue, making it ideal for oily or combination skin types.
Improves product texture
It helps lipsticks and foundations apply smoothly and evenly, reducing drag and improving the overall user experience.
Cons and cautions
Limited independent research
Most safety data comes from industry sources, and there are few peer-reviewed studies on long-term skin exposure.
Sourcing concerns
Castor oil is sometimes sourced from genetically modified crops, which may be a concern for some consumers.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer
- People who prefer silky, glide-on textures in lip and face products
Use caution if
- Those with known allergies to castor oil derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) and industry studies support its use as a skin-conditioning agent. However, independent clinical data on long-term effects is sparse.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe as used.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Lip balms, Foundations, Creams, Lotions
- Environmental note
- Castor oil is a renewable resource, but its cultivation can involve pesticide use and land conversion. Biodegradability data for this specific derivative is limited.
Good to know
- It is often used as a replacement for lanolin in vegan formulations.
- The ingredient is not water-soluble, so it works best in oil-based or emulsion products.
Common questions
What is Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate in beauty products?
Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is a modified form of castor oil. It is used in cosmetics to make products feel silky and spread easily on the skin without leaving a heavy or sticky residue. Think of it as a lightweight moisturizing ingredient that also helps other ingredients blend together nicely.
What does Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the surface of the skin, forming a thin, breathable film that reduces water loss and makes the skin feel smooth. In lip products, it helps create a glossy, even finish without being tacky.
Is Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate safe for most people?
Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types.
Who should be careful with Butyl Acetyl Ricinoleate?
Those with known allergies to castor oil derivatives (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.