Ingredient review
Diisostearyl Glutarate
INCI: DIISOSTEARYL GLUTARATE
A gentle, non-greasy emollient that hydrates and smooths skin without clogging pores.
In plain English
Diisostearyl glutarate is a synthetic oil-like ingredient made from glutaric acid and isostearyl alcohol. It spreads easily on the skin, leaving a soft, silky feel without heavy greasiness. Think of it as a lightweight moisturizing agent that helps other ingredients glide on smoothly and keeps your skin feeling comfortable.
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
Diisostearyl Glutarate 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 Diisostearyl Glutarate.
- 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
Diisostearyl glutarate is an ester, meaning it is formed by combining an acid (glutaric acid) with a fatty alcohol (isostearyl alcohol). It is a clear, viscous liquid used in cosmetics to improve texture and provide a pleasant skin feel.
How it works
It sits on the skin's surface, forming a thin, breathable film that reduces water loss and locks in moisture. Its emollient properties fill in the gaps between skin cells, making the skin feel softer and smoother. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike heavy oils, diisostearyl glutarate absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky residue, making it ideal for daytime moisturizers and makeup.
Low irritation potential
It is considered very gentle on the skin, with a low risk of causing redness or breakouts, even for sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is manufactured in a lab, which may be a drawback for consumers seeking 100% natural or plant-based skincare.
Limited research
While generally regarded as safe, there are fewer independent studies on this ingredient compared to more common emollients like jojoba oil or shea butter.
Best for
- Anyone with normal to dry skin looking for lightweight moisture
- People with sensitive or acne-prone skin who want a non-comedogenic emollient
Use caution if
- Those strictly avoiding all synthetic ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Diisostearyl glutarate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, and is not known to be comedogenic. Regulatory bodies in the US and EU have approved its use without restrictions.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and EU CosIng database support its use as a skin conditioning agent. Most evidence comes from industry-sponsored safety tests rather than independent clinical trials, but no significant safety concerns have been identified.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission. It is listed on the CosIng database as a safe skin conditioning agent.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Lip products, Makeup, Sunscreens, Hair conditioners
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic ester, it is biodegradable and does not accumulate in the environment, though its production relies on petrochemical-derived alcohols.
Good to know
- Diisostearyl glutarate is often used in lipsticks and glosses for a smooth, non-tacky finish.
- It is biodegradable and not considered a microplastic.
Common questions
What is Diisostearyl Glutarate in beauty products?
Diisostearyl glutarate is a synthetic oil-like ingredient made from glutaric acid and isostearyl alcohol. It spreads easily on the skin, leaving a soft, silky feel without heavy greasiness. Think of it as a lightweight moisturizing agent that helps other ingredients glide on smoothly and keeps your skin feeling comfortable.
What does Diisostearyl Glutarate do in a beauty product?
It sits on the skin's surface, forming a thin, breathable film that reduces water loss and locks in moisture. Its emollient properties fill in the gaps between skin cells, making the skin feel softer and smoother. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly.
Is Diisostearyl Glutarate safe for most people?
Diisostearyl glutarate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, and is not known to be comedogenic. Regulatory bodies in the US and EU have approved its use without restrictions.
Who should be careful with Diisostearyl Glutarate?
Those strictly avoiding all synthetic ingredients
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.