Ingredient review
Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide
INCI: DIBUTYL ETHYLHEXANOYL GLUTAMIDE
A synthetic gelling agent that creates elegant, clear gel textures with low irritation potential.
In plain English
Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamide is a man-made ingredient used to thicken and gel cosmetic products. It helps create smooth, clear gels that feel lightweight on the skin. Think of it as a structure-builder that gives products a pleasant, non-sticky texture without needing waxes or oils.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
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
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide 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.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic compound derived from glutamic acid (an amino acid) and fatty acids. It forms a network of fibers that trap liquid ingredients, turning them into a stable gel.
How it works
When mixed into a formula, this ingredient self-assembles into a three-dimensional network of tiny fibers. This network holds water and other liquid ingredients in place, creating a clear, stable gel. It works at low concentrations and doesn't require heat to activate, making it easy for formulators to use.
Pros
Elegant texture
Creates clear, smooth gels that feel lightweight and non-sticky on the skin, making products pleasant to use.
Low irritation
Derived from amino acids, it has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, suitable for sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Not natural or plant-derived, which may be a drawback for consumers seeking clean or natural beauty products.
Limited research
Few independent studies exist on its long-term skin effects, though available safety data supports its use.
Best for
- People who enjoy lightweight, clear gel moisturizers or serums
- Those with oily or combination skin looking for non-greasy textures
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients
- People with known sensitivity to amino-acid derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamide is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) and EU CosIng have found this ingredient safe for topical use. Most data comes from manufacturer studies and regulatory submissions; independent peer-reviewed research is limited.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 3%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. Listed in the CosIng database as a safe gelling agent.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Eye creams, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Synthetic and not biodegradable, but used at low concentrations. Its environmental impact is considered minimal compared to microplastics.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'jelly' or 'bouncy' texture products popular in K-beauty.
- It can help stabilize other ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide in clear formulas.
Common questions
What is Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide in beauty products?
Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamide is a man-made ingredient used to thicken and gel cosmetic products. It helps create smooth, clear gels that feel lightweight on the skin. Think of it as a structure-builder that gives products a pleasant, non-sticky texture without needing waxes or oils.
What does Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide do in a beauty product?
When mixed into a formula, this ingredient self-assembles into a three-dimensional network of tiny fibers. This network holds water and other liquid ingredients in place, creating a clear, stable gel. It works at low concentrations and doesn't require heat to activate, making it easy for formulators to use.
Is Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide safe for most people?
Dibutyl ethylhexanoyl glutamide is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Dibutyl Ethylhexanoyl Glutamide?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients People with known sensitivity to amino-acid derivatives (rare)
Research sources
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.