Ingredient review
Glycereth-18 Benzoate
INCI: GLYCERETH-18 BENZOATE
A gentle, non-greasy emollient that improves product spreadability and leaves skin feeling soft without clogging pores.
In plain English
Glycereth-18 Benzoate is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by combining glycerin (a natural humectant) with benzoic acid and ethylene oxide. It acts as an emollient, meaning it helps soften and smooth the skin by forming a light, breathable film that reduces water loss. Unlike heavier oils, it feels silky and non-sticky, making it popular in lightweight moisturizers and sunscreens. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly and can improve the texture of creams and lotions.
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
Glycereth-18 Benzoate 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 Glycereth-18 Benzoate.
- 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 semi-synthetic compound derived from glycerin and benzoic acid, modified with ethylene oxide to create a water-soluble, non-greasy emollient.
How it works
It sits on the skin's surface, filling in tiny gaps between skin cells to create a smooth, soft feel. It also helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) — the amount of water that evaporates from your skin — without feeling heavy or oily.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike heavy oils, Glycereth-18 Benzoate leaves a silky, non-sticky finish that works well under makeup or sunscreen.
Low pore-clogging risk
With a low comedogenic rating, it's unlikely to cause breakouts, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
Cons and cautions
Not for very dry skin
Its lightweight nature may not provide enough moisture for severely dry or compromised skin barriers.
Semi-synthetic origin
Some consumers prefer fully natural ingredients; this ingredient is chemically modified from natural sources.
Best for
- People with normal to oily or combination skin looking for lightweight hydration
- Anyone who dislikes heavy, greasy moisturizers
Use caution if
- Those with extremely dry or dehydrated skin may need richer emollients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Glycereth-18 Benzoate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant toxicity concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that glycereth compounds, including Glycereth-18 Benzoate, are safe for use in rinse-off and leave-on products. Studies indicate low acute toxicity and no significant skin irritation or sensitization.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. Generally recognized as safe when used as directed.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Makeup, Hair care products
- Environmental note
- As a semi-synthetic compound, its biodegradability is moderate. It is not known to bioaccumulate.
Good to know
- It is often used in sunscreens to improve texture and reduce the white cast.
- The '18' in its name refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units, which affects its water solubility.
Common questions
What is Glycereth-18 Benzoate in beauty products?
Glycereth-18 Benzoate is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by combining glycerin (a natural humectant) with benzoic acid and ethylene oxide. It acts as an emollient, meaning it helps soften and smooth the skin by forming a light, breathable film that reduces water loss. Unlike heavier oils, it feels silky and non-sticky, making it popular in lightweight moisturizers and sunscreens. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly and can improve the texture of creams and lotions.
What does Glycereth-18 Benzoate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the skin's surface, filling in tiny gaps between skin cells to create a smooth, soft feel. It also helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) — the amount of water that evaporates from your skin — without feeling heavy or oily.
Is Glycereth-18 Benzoate safe for most people?
Glycereth-18 Benzoate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant toxicity concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Glycereth-18 Benzoate?
Those with extremely dry or dehydrated skin may need richer emollients
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.