Ingredient review
Dimethiconol Illipe Butterate
INCI: Dimethiconol Illipe Butterate
A hybrid silicone-butter ingredient that provides rich, non-greasy moisture and a silky finish.
In plain English
This ingredient is a blend of a silicone polymer (dimethiconol) and illipe butter, a tropical plant fat. The result is a smooth, spreadable emollient that feels lightweight on skin but still delivers deep moisturizing benefits. It helps products glide on easily and leaves a soft, velvety finish without clogging pores.
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
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Dimethiconol Illipe Butterate 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 Dimethiconol Illipe Butterate.
- 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 semi-synthetic ester formed by chemically bonding dimethiconol (a silicone polymer) with illipe butter (a solid fat from the Shorea stenoptera tree). It is used as a high-performance emollient in cosmetics.
How it works
It forms a thin, breathable film on the skin or hair that locks in moisture and reduces water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL). The silicone component gives a silky, non-sticky feel, while the butter provides richer nourishment and helps smooth rough texture.
Pros
Lightweight luxury feel
Combines the richness of illipe butter with the slip of silicone, so skin feels moisturized but not greasy or sticky.
Low irritation potential
Generally well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types, with low comedogenic and irritation ratings.
Cons and cautions
Silicone content
Some users prefer to avoid silicones due to concerns about buildup or environmental persistence, though this ingredient is modified and may behave differently.
Not for very oily skin
While lighter than pure butter, it can still feel too rich for those with naturally oily or acne-prone skin.
Best for
- People with dry or dehydrated skin looking for a rich yet lightweight moisturizer
- Anyone who wants a smooth, silky finish in their skincare or makeup
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid silicones in their routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No known significant safety concerns, though silicone-sensitive individuals may prefer alternatives.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specific to this hybrid ingredient, but both dimethiconol and illipe butter have established safety profiles. Industry data supports its use as a gentle, effective emollient.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU CosIng database and US FDA (as part of generally recognized safe silicone derivatives).
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Lip products, Hair conditioners, Makeup
- Environmental note
- Silicone derivatives can be slow to biodegrade, but dimethiconol illipe butterate is a modified ester that may break down more readily than linear silicones. Illipe butter is a renewable plant resource.
Good to know
- Illipe butter is a sustainable crop from Southeast Asia, often harvested from wild trees.
- This ingredient is often found in 'clean' or 'natural' formulas that still want a silicone-like feel.
Common questions
What is Dimethiconol Illipe Butterate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a blend of a silicone polymer (dimethiconol) and illipe butter, a tropical plant fat. The result is a smooth, spreadable emollient that feels lightweight on skin but still delivers deep moisturizing benefits. It helps products glide on easily and leaves a soft, velvety finish without clogging pores.
What does Dimethiconol Illipe Butterate do in a beauty product?
It forms a thin, breathable film on the skin or hair that locks in moisture and reduces water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL). The silicone component gives a silky, non-sticky feel, while the butter provides richer nourishment and helps smooth rough texture.
Is Dimethiconol Illipe Butterate safe for most people?
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No known significant safety concerns, though silicone-sensitive individuals may prefer alternatives.
Who should be careful with Dimethiconol Illipe Butterate?
Those who strictly avoid silicones in their routine
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.