Emollient ingredient
Aleuritic Acid
9,10,16-Trihydroxyhexadecanoic acid, a naturally occurring hydroxy fatty acid found in shellac resin secreted by Kerria lacca (lac insect). Used in cosmetics as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent with mild antimicrobial properties. The three hydroxyl groups give it some humectant character alongside its primary emollient role. Appears in ceramide-rich formulas (such as Holika Holika Good Cera) for its lipid-compatible moisturizing properties.
Also known as: 9,10,16-trihydroxyhexadecanoic acid
skin-conditioningemollientantimicrobial
Benefits
- ✓Trihydroxy fatty acid with lipid-compatible structure that integrates smoothly into the skin surface
- ✓Naturally occurring in shellac (Kerria lacca resin), giving it a natural/bio-origin positioning
- ✓Mild antimicrobial activity contributes secondary preservation support in multi-ingredient formulas
Watch for
- ⚠Shellac-derived — may not be suitable for strict vegans; animal origin (lac insect) should be disclosed for vegan certifications
Compatibility
✓ Works well with
+ Ceramide NP+ Cholesterol+ Shea Butter
