Octyldodecanol Good Occlusive-opacifying agent Hydration Octyldodecanol at a glance Long chain fatty acid Emollient Often used in lip products Ruled safe as used in cosmetics Octyldodecanol description Octyldodecanol is a long chain fatty acid used in cosmetics formulations as an emollient, often used in lip balms, lipsticks, and moisturizers. It can be lab-produced or naturally derived from plant-based oils such as coconut and palm oil. In its raw form, octyldodecanol is a clear, odorless liquid. Though it can be used in formulations in amounts as high as 50%, this usage is rare and is more commonly seen in amounts ranging from 0.1-5.0%. Octyldodecanol has been ruled safe in its use in cosmetics.