Ethylhexyl cocoate is a chemical compound, ester produced by the reaction of coconut oil with ethylhexanol also known as 2-Ethylhexyl cocoate. Basically, it is a mixture of esters obtained from the reaction of 2-ethylhexyl alcohol with fatty acids obtained from coconut acid. Synthesis methods start with fatty acids derived from coconut oil, but also simple esters of these fatty acids, corresponding fatty alcohols, simple esters of these fatty acids. The dried inner pulp of coconuts is used in the processing stage.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Ethylhexyl refers to an ethylhexyl group (C₈H₁₇), an octane-derived functional group (C₈H₁₈). It is composed of eight carbon atoms and seventeen hydrogen atoms. The ethylhexyl group is often used in cosmetic formulations for its ability to improve the spreadability and consistency of products on the skin.
• Cocoate. Indicates that the compound is derived from coconut oil, which is extracted from the kernel or flesh of coconuts and consists mainly of fatty acids. In the context of Ethylhexyl cocoate, it refers to the fatty acids derived from coconut oil, which give the compound emollient properties.

Description of the raw materials used in its production:

• Ethylhexyl alcohol, also known as 2-ethylhexanol, is a primary alcohol that serves as a precursor in the synthesis of ethylhexyl cocoate. It can be derived from petroleum or natural gas through various chemical processes.
• Coconut oil fatty acids are obtained from the hydrolysis or saponification of coconut oil. Coconut oil is a natural oil extracted from the kernel or meat of mature coconuts.

The synthesis process takes place in different steps:

• Esterification. Ethylhexyl cocoate is synthesised through esterification, in which the fatty acid present in coconut oil (cocoate) reacts with ethylhexanol. This reaction typically takes place in the presence of an acid catalyst, such as sulphuric acid or p-toluenesulphonic acid. Reaction conditions, such as temperature and reaction time, may vary depending on the specific synthesis method.
• Purification. After esterification, the crude product obtained may contain ethylhexyl cocoate together with impurities. Purification techniques such as distillation, extraction or filtration can be used to isolate the ethylhexyl cocoate and remove impurities. These purification methods help ensure a higher level of purity of the final compound.
• Characterisation and analysis. Once purified, synthesised ethylhexyl cocoate must be characterised and analysed to confirm its chemical structure and purity. Techniques such as NMR, MS and IR spectroscopy can be used to analyse the structure and verify the identity of the synthesised compound.

It takes the form of a yellowish, clear transparent liquid insoluble in water.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

It is used in cosmetic skin care and hair care products as a non-occlusive emollient and skin conditioning agent. Low in oil, it is easy to apply on the skin and does not stick.

Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss.  Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives. 

Safety

The safety of Ethylhexyl Cocoate may also depend on the specific formulation, concentration and combination with other ingredients in a cosmetic product.

Typical commercial product characteristics 2-Ethylhexyl cocoate

• CAS: 92044-87-6     91052-62-9
• UNII    I1MPW273QS
• EC Number: 295-366-3
• CB8523013
• DTXSID20894665

Synonyms 

• Fatty acids, coco, 2-ethylhexyl esters
• Crodamol OC
• Dub CO
• Trioxene E
• Radia 7778
• Estol 1540

References_____________________________________________________________________

Amended Safety Assessment of Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil and its Derivatives  The 2008 Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert