The Application of Selachyl Alcohol as Humectant

Abstract

Selachyl alcohol can contain up to 30% water. It forms a liquid crystal in the presence of water at about 11-88°C. At about 35°C, this liquid crystal has a very high water retention which lasts for a long period of time. When mixed with vaseline, its water-holding capacity is greatly increased. Compared to other emollients, it shows a high moisture permeability. It is not occlusive to the skin.
To study its actual effects on human skin, selachyl alcohol and two other cosmetic ingredients were applied to the skin on the underside of the forearm and the changes in the water content of the stratum corneum over time was measured. Using selachyl alcohol, the water content increased continuously for a period of one hour and then became constant, which is quite different from the results using isopropylmyristate and vaseline.
The liquid crystal formed by selachyl alcohol and water gives excellent emolliency to the skin when used in cosmetic formulations. Selachyl alcohol can also be used in hair care cosmetics.