Behenic Acid

[bi-ˈhen-ic, a-səd]

Categories: Emollients, Plant Extracts

Behenic Acid Skin Benefits:
Soothing
Moisturizing

Behenic acid is a saturated fatty acid that is derived from the seeds of the indigenous Amazon tree species, Pentaclethra macroloba. As a fatty acid, behenic acid is important to help provide a protective barrier against the environment in order to maintain good skin quality.  In skincare, behenic acid has lubricant, emollient, and soothing properties, which help to restore the skin’s natural oils and improve overall levels of hydration. Furthermore, this sebaceous fatty acid is favorably soluble against the skin’s surface, making it a desirable ingredient to infuse into skincare formulas. 1 2 3

In skincare, behenic acid is most commonly used to provide soothing relief for dry and sensitive skin. The sebaceous fatty acids play a role in maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier, thereby improving moisture-retention and enhancing skin-hydration. 3 

  1. Pennick, G. et al. The effect of an amphiphilic self-assembled lipid lamellar phase on the relief of dry skin. Int J Cosmet Sci 34(6), 567-74 (2012)
  2. Ni, Raghallaigh.. et al. The fatty acid profile of the skin surface lipid layer in papulopustular rosacea. Br J Dermatol 166(2), 279-87 (2012)
  3. Banov, D. Case Series: The Effectiveness of Fatty Acids from Pracaxi Oil in a Topical Silicone Base for Scar and Wound Therapy. Dermatology and Therapy 4.2, 259–269 (2014)