The ingredient, explained

Isononyl Isononanoate

A published expert assessment examines cosmetic-use safety.

EmollientAntistaticSkin conditioning

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Ingredient guide

What it is and what it does

3‚5,5-Trimethylhexyl 3‚5,5-trimethylhexanoate

About this ingredient: EU CosIng ingredient registry (via Open Beauty Facts taxonomy) ↗

Emollient: Helps soften and smooth the skin surface.
Antistatic: Reduces the build-up of static electrical charge on surfaces.
Skin conditioning: A broad cosmetic role for maintaining skin condition. It does not identify a particular clinical benefit.

Function definitions: European Commission ingredient function definitions (SCCNFP/0299/00, pages 16 to 20) ↗

Registry functions describe possible formulation roles, not results for a finished product. A dictionary entry is not an approval or a safety assessment.

A closer look

What the research shows

Safety assessment

This exact ester is included in the assessment supporting the described uses when formulations do not cause irritation.

What this does not tell us

The group assessment draws on shared chemistry and toxicology; it does not establish an independent moisturising benefit.

Sources for this summary. PubMed 26362120 ↗

Research review checked Oct 1, 2026

Bounded targeted searches for the exact ingredient identity in primary research or final expert assessments, with selected-source verification. Not a systematic review.

Ingredient research is not proof that a product containing this ingredient works.