Compounds of the formula (I): ##STR00001## wherein each of R.sub.1-R.sub.12 is independently hydrogen or a linear C.sub.1-20 alkyl group each of A.sub.1 and A.sub.2 is a 1, 2 or 3 ring carbon atom wherein A.sub.1 is substituted by R.sub.9 and R.sub.10 and A.sub.2 is substituted by R.sub.11 and R.sub.12; and wherein at least one of R.sub.1-R.sub.12 is a linear alkyl group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms are emollients for use in cosmetics, lubricants and pharmaceutical preparations.