Tribehenin
Tribehenin was reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Panel as part of the triglyceride safety assessment, which concluded that the 51 triglycerides reviewed (including tribehenin) are safe in current cosmetic use. Patch tests show low irritation/sensitization.
What it is
Tribehenin — the triester of glycerin and behenic acid (C22 fatty acid); a triglyceride wax-like emollient.
Cosmetic emollient/skin conditioner/viscosity increaser; not a typical food ingredient.
Why it's flagged
- may increase penetration of other compounds in finished products
What regulators actually say
"The CIR Expert Panel concluded the 51 triglycerides reviewed are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration."
"A moisturizer containing 6% Tribehenin was not a sensitizer (102 subjects), and a mixture containing 20% Tribehenin had no clinically significant potential for dermal irritation or sensitization."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Not a direct food additive; cosmetic use under FDA cosmetic regulations
European Union — EFSA
Cosmetic ingredient under EU 1223/2009
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