Ingredient review

DATEM

INCI: DIACETYL TARTARIC ACID ESTERS OF MONO- AND DIGLYCERIDES

DATEM is a functional emulsifier that helps stabilize cosmetic formulas, but it offers no direct skin benefit and is rarely a primary ingredient.

beautyskincareemulsifier

In plain English

DATEM is an ingredient that helps mix oil and water in creams and lotions so they stay smooth and don't separate. It is more commonly used in food as a dough conditioner, but it can also appear in cosmetics as a stabilizer. It does not actively moisturize or treat the skin—it just helps the product feel consistent.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.0Fair
3.0/ 5

Useful in the right context, but not low-maintenance

The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.

Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.

Source
semi synthetic
Evidence
moderate
Irritation
low
Clogging risk
low
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Read the cautions before using

DATEM 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 DATEM.
  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

DATEM is a semi-synthetic emulsifier made from tartaric acid, acetic acid, and mono- and diglycerides. It is primarily used in the food industry but is also approved for use in cosmetics to stabilize emulsions.

How it works

In a cosmetic product, DATEM sits at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so they mix evenly. This prevents the product from separating into layers and gives a uniform texture.

Pros

Effective stabilizer

DATEM helps keep oil and water mixed, so your cream or lotion stays smooth and doesn't separate over time.

Low irritation risk

It is generally considered non-irritating and non-comedogenic, making it safe for most skin types in small amounts.

Cons and cautions

No direct skin benefit

DATEM does not hydrate, soothe, or treat the skin—it only improves product texture, so it adds no active value.

Rare in skincare

It is far more common in food, so its use in cosmetics is limited and may be unfamiliar to consumers.

Best for

  • Anyone using emulsified creams or lotions where stability is important
  • Formulators looking for a reliable emulsifier

Use caution if

  • Those seeking active skincare ingredients with proven skin benefits

Usage tips

Look for DATEM in the ingredient list of creams or lotions if you want a stable, non-separating formula.
If you prefer minimal ingredients, choose products that use simpler emulsifiers like cetearyl alcohol instead.

Safety summary

DATEM is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, but it offers no direct skin benefit and is rarely a primary ingredient in skincare.

Research notes

Research on DATEM in cosmetics is limited; most studies focus on its use as a food emulsifier. It is generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies, but no peer-reviewed studies confirm specific skincare benefits.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 3%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU, but primarily used as a food additive. No specific restrictions in skincare at typical concentrations.
Common uses
Moisturizers, Creams, Lotions
Environmental note
DATEM is semi-synthetic and biodegradable, but its production involves chemical processing. It is not typically associated with significant environmental concerns.

Good to know

  • DATEM is approved by the FDA for use in food and cosmetics, but it is not a common skincare ingredient.
  • It is often derived from plant-based oils, but the tartaric acid may come from grapes or other sources.

Common questions

What is DATEM in beauty products?

DATEM is an ingredient that helps mix oil and water in creams and lotions so they stay smooth and don't separate. It is more commonly used in food as a dough conditioner, but it can also appear in cosmetics as a stabilizer. It does not actively moisturize or treat the skin—it just helps the product feel consistent.

What does DATEM do in a beauty product?

In a cosmetic product, DATEM sits at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so they mix evenly. This prevents the product from separating into layers and gives a uniform texture.

Is DATEM safe for most people?

DATEM is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, but it offers no direct skin benefit and is rarely a primary ingredient in skincare.

Who should be careful with DATEM?

Those seeking active skincare ingredients with proven skin benefits

Research sources

FDA Food Additive StatusOpenCosIng Database - DATEMOpenPubMed - Safety of DATEMOpen

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.