Undecylenic Acid
A cosmetic ingredient used as antimicrobial, fragrance, preservative in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Undec-10-enoic acid; 10-Undecenoic acid
What does it do?
Undecylenic Acid is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Antimicrobial
kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms
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Fragrance
provides scent or masks the natural odour of other ingredients
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Preservative
prevents microbial growth in cosmetic products, extending shelf life and protecting users
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Surfactant - cleansing
surfactant whose primary cosmetic role is cleansing — the active workhorse in soaps, shampoos, and body washes
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Surfactant - emulsifying
surfactant that forms and stabilises emulsions of oil and water — without it, creams and lotions would separate
EU regulatory status
Undecylenic Acid is listed in Annex V of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 as a substance permitted for the corresponding category of use.
Frequently asked questions
What is Undecylenic Acid?
Undecylenic Acid is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Undec-10-enoic acid; 10-Undecenoic acid
Is Undecylenic Acid allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Undecylenic Acid is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Undecylenic Acid do in cosmetic products?
Undecylenic Acid is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antimicrobial, fragrance, preservative, surfactant - cleansing, surfactant - emulsifying.
What is the CAS number of Undecylenic Acid?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Undecylenic Acid is 112-38-9.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 10/08/2020