Ingredient review

Aluminum Dibenzoyl Stearate Hydroxide

INCI: ALUMINUM DIBENZOATE/STEARATE HYDROXIDE

A synthetic thickener and stabilizer that helps keep formulas smooth and consistent, but it's not a skincare active.

beautyskincarecosmetic ingredient

In plain English

This ingredient is a man-made compound that helps give cosmetics a nice, creamy texture and keeps the oil and water parts from separating. You won't find it in a 'hero ingredient' list, but it's a workhorse that makes your products feel and look right.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Aluminum Dibenzoyl Stearate Hydroxide is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.

Plain-English read

Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Aluminum Dibenzoyl Stearate Hydroxide.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.

Score terms in plain English

Irritation risk

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A synthetic aluminum salt of benzoic and stearic acids, used as a thickener and stabilizer in cosmetics.

How it works

It forms a network within the product's liquid base, increasing viscosity and preventing the separation of oil and water phases. This helps maintain a uniform texture and consistency over time.

Pros

Improves texture

Creates a smooth, creamy feel in products like lipsticks and creams, making them easier to apply.

Stabilizes formulas

Helps prevent oil and water from separating, so your product stays consistent from first use to last.

Cons and cautions

Not a skincare active

It doesn't provide hydration, anti-aging, or other skin benefits—it's purely a texture and stability aid.

Synthetic origin

Some consumers prefer to avoid synthetic ingredients, even when they are considered safe and effective.

Best for

  • Anyone using products that need a stable, creamy texture
  • Those who prefer consistent formulas

Use caution if

  • Those seeking purely natural or active-focused skincare
  • Individuals with known aluminum sensitivities (rare)

Usage tips

Look for it in lipsticks and cream-based products for a smooth application.
It's not a standalone ingredient—always part of a formulated product.

Safety summary

Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The aluminum component is bound in a large molecule and is not readily absorbed through skin. No significant irritation or sensitization has been reported.

Research notes

Limited independent research on this specific compound, but it is a well-established ingredient in cosmetic formulation. Safety assessments by industry panels (e.g., CIR) have found it safe as used.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng) with no specific restrictions at typical concentrations.
Common uses
Lipsticks, Creams, Lotions, Mascara
Environmental note
As a synthetic compound, its biodegradability is limited, but it is used in small amounts in rinse-off and leave-on products.

Good to know

  • It is often used in combination with other thickeners to achieve the desired consistency.
  • The 'dibenzoate/stearate' part refers to the two types of fatty acids attached to the aluminum.

Common questions

What is Aluminum Dibenzoyl Stearate Hydroxide in beauty products?

This ingredient is a man-made compound that helps give cosmetics a nice, creamy texture and keeps the oil and water parts from separating. You won't find it in a 'hero ingredient' list, but it's a workhorse that makes your products feel and look right.

What does Aluminum Dibenzoyl Stearate Hydroxide do in a beauty product?

It forms a network within the product's liquid base, increasing viscosity and preventing the separation of oil and water phases. This helps maintain a uniform texture and consistency over time.

Is Aluminum Dibenzoyl Stearate Hydroxide safe for most people?

Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The aluminum component is bound in a large molecule and is not readily absorbed through skin. No significant irritation or sensitization has been reported.

Who should be careful with Aluminum Dibenzoyl Stearate Hydroxide?

Those seeking purely natural or active-focused skincare Individuals with known aluminum sensitivities (rare)

Research sources

CosIng (EU) DatabaseOpenCIR Safety Review (Aluminum Compounds)Open

Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.