Ingredient review
Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate
INCI: DI-C12-13 ALKYL TARTRATE
A lightweight, non-greasy emollient that helps soften skin and improve product texture without clogging pores.
In plain English
Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate is a synthetic ingredient made from tartaric acid (found in grapes) and fatty alcohols. In skincare, it acts as an emollient, meaning it helps soften and smooth the skin by forming a light, breathable film that reduces water loss. It feels silky and non-greasy, making it popular in lightweight moisturizers and sunscreens. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly on the skin.
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
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate 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 Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate.
- 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
A synthetic ester created by combining tartaric acid with a blend of C12-13 fatty alcohols. It is a clear to slightly yellow liquid at room temperature.
How it works
It sits on the skin's surface to fill in rough patches and create a smooth, soft feel. It also helps reduce water loss from the skin (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL) by forming a thin protective layer, while remaining lightweight and non-occlusive.
Pros
Lightweight texture
Unlike heavier oils, this emollient absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for daytime use and for oily or combination skin types.
Low irritation potential
It is generally well-tolerated and has a low risk of causing skin irritation or allergic reactions, even for sensitive skin.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is not a natural ingredient, which may be a drawback for consumers seeking plant-based or naturally derived alternatives.
Limited independent research
While safe for use, there is less published research on this specific ester compared to more common emollients like jojoba oil or squalane.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin who prefer lightweight moisturizers
- Anyone looking for a non-comedogenic emollient in sunscreens or makeup
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients in their skincare routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Research on this specific ester is limited, but it belongs to a well-studied class of alkyl tartrate esters. Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) support its safe use in leave-on and rinse-off products.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar alkyl tartrates and found them safe as used.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Makeup
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ester, its biodegradability may vary. It is not typically derived from endangered or controversial sources.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in sunscreens to improve texture and water resistance.
- It is considered safe by major cosmetic ingredient review panels.
Common questions
What is Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate in beauty products?
Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate is a synthetic ingredient made from tartaric acid (found in grapes) and fatty alcohols. In skincare, it acts as an emollient, meaning it helps soften and smooth the skin by forming a light, breathable film that reduces water loss. It feels silky and non-greasy, making it popular in lightweight moisturizers and sunscreens. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly on the skin.
What does Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the skin's surface to fill in rough patches and create a smooth, soft feel. It also helps reduce water loss from the skin (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL) by forming a thin protective layer, while remaining lightweight and non-occlusive.
Is Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate safe for most people?
Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Di-C12-13 Alkyl Tartrate?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients in their skincare routine
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.