Pentaerythrityl Tetralaurate is a tetra-ester combining pentaerythritol with lauric acid (C12). Lauric acid's shorter chain length gives this ester a lighter feel than stearate or isostearate variants. Used as a lightweight emollient and binder in powder-based cosmetics.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Lightweight, fast-absorbing emollient
+ Good powder binding for pressed formulations
+ Improves payoff in powder products
+ Non-greasy, matte-ish finish
Pros
+ Lighter than other pentaerythrityl esters
+ Good for powder cosmetics
+ Fast absorption
Cons
− Synthetic
− Can be drying in high concentrations (lauric acid origin)
− Limited skin conditioning vs longer-chain esters
Specifications
Property
Value
Usage Areas
Face, Body
Product Type
N/A
Source
Synthetic
Natural Level
Synthetic
Safety Ratings
Metric
Rating
Skin Sensitivity
1/5
Comedogenic Rating
0-1/5
EWG Score
2/10
Regional Regulatory Limits
Region
Leave-on %
Rinse-off %
Status
EU (CosIng)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Japan (MHLW)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
ASEAN
No limit
No limit
Allowed
China (NMPA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Typical Usage % by Product Type
Product Type
Typical %
Pressed powder
2 - 8%
Eyeshadow
3 - 12%
Blush
3 - 10%
References
CIR — Safety Assessment of pentaerythrityl esters. PMID: 25850168
EU CosIng Database — Listed as skin conditioning/emollient.