Ingredient review
Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate
INCI: DI-C14-15 ALKYL TARTRATE
A gentle, non-greasy emollient that helps soften skin and improve product texture without clogging pores.
In plain English
Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate is a synthetic oil-like ingredient made from tartaric acid (found in grapes) and fatty alcohols. It spreads easily on the skin, leaving a silky, non-greasy feel. It helps moisturizers and serums glide on smoothly and can improve the texture of sunscreens and makeup. Because it is lightweight and low in comedogenicity, it is often used in products for oily or acne-prone 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-C14-15 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-C14-15 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 formed by combining tartaric acid with a blend of C14-15 fatty alcohols. It functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent.
How it works
It sits on the skin's surface, filling in gaps between skin cells to create a smooth, soft feel. It also reduces the greasy or sticky sensation of other oils, improving the overall sensory experience of a product.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike heavier oils, Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate absorbs quickly and leaves a silky finish, making it ideal for daytime moisturizers and makeup.
Low pore-clogging risk
It has a low comedogenic rating, so it is unlikely to cause breakouts even for acne-prone skin.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is manufactured in a lab, which may be a turn-off for consumers seeking all-natural or plant-derived ingredients.
Limited independent research
Most safety data comes from manufacturer studies; long-term independent research on skin health is sparse.
Best for
- People with oily or combination skin looking for a lightweight moisturizer
- Anyone who prefers non-greasy, fast-absorbing skincare products
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients in their routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. Patch testing is rarely needed, but sensitive individuals should always test new products.
Research notes
Safety assessments by industry panels and regulatory bodies support its use. Peer-reviewed studies on this specific ingredient are limited, but it is structurally similar to other well-studied alkyl tartrates that show good skin compatibility.
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 reviewed similar alkyl tartrates and found them safe at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Makeup
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ester, its biodegradability is moderate. It is not known to bioaccumulate, but environmental impact data is limited.
Good to know
- Tartaric acid is a natural compound found in grapes, but the final ingredient is chemically modified.
- It is often used as a replacement for silicones in 'silicone-free' formulations.
Common questions
What is Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate in beauty products?
Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate is a synthetic oil-like ingredient made from tartaric acid (found in grapes) and fatty alcohols. It spreads easily on the skin, leaving a silky, non-greasy feel. It helps moisturizers and serums glide on smoothly and can improve the texture of sunscreens and makeup. Because it is lightweight and low in comedogenicity, it is often used in products for oily or acne-prone skin.
What does Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the skin's surface, filling in gaps between skin cells to create a smooth, soft feel. It also reduces the greasy or sticky sensation of other oils, improving the overall sensory experience of a product.
Is Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate safe for most people?
Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. Patch testing is rarely needed, but sensitive individuals should always test new products.
Who should be careful with Di-C14-15 Alkyl Tartrate?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients in their 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.