Ingredient review
Dimethylcyclohexyl Ethylcarbamate
INCI: DIMETHYLCYCLOHEXYL ETHYLCARBAMATE
A synthetic cooling ingredient that provides a gentle, refreshing sensation without the strong minty smell of menthol.
In plain English
This is a lab-made ingredient that feels cool when applied to the skin, similar to the sensation you get from mint but without the strong scent. It works by interacting with temperature-sensitive receptors in your skin, tricking them into feeling cooler. It's often used in products meant to refresh, depuff, or soothe the skin, like eye creams or facial mists.
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
Dimethylcyclohexyl Ethylcarbamate 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 Dimethylcyclohexyl Ethylcarbamate.
- 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
Dimethylcyclohexyl ethylcarbamate is a synthetic compound designed to mimic the cooling effect of menthol. It is a white crystalline powder that is added to cosmetic formulations to provide a refreshing, cooling sensation without the strong odor or potential irritation associated with natural cooling agents like peppermint oil.
How it works
It activates the TRPM8 receptor, a protein on the surface of certain nerve cells in the skin that normally responds to cool temperatures. By binding to this receptor, the ingredient sends a signal to the brain that the skin is cooler than it actually is, creating a perceived cooling effect without actually lowering skin temperature.
Pros
Gentle cooling without strong scent
Unlike menthol or peppermint oil, this ingredient provides a cooling feel without a strong, lingering minty smell, making it more versatile for scented or unscented products.
Can help depuff and refresh
The cooling sensation can temporarily constrict blood vessels, which may help reduce the appearance of under-eye puffiness and give skin a refreshed look.
Cons and cautions
Sensation may not suit everyone
Some people find the cooling or tingling feeling unpleasant or even irritating, especially if they have sensitive skin or apply it near the eyes.
Limited long-term research
Compared to well-studied cooling agents like menthol, there is less published research on the long-term effects and optimal usage of this specific compound in cosmetics.
Best for
- People who enjoy a cooling, refreshing sensation in their skincare
- Those looking for a depuffing eye product
- Individuals who want a cooling effect without the strong scent of mint
Use caution if
- Those with very sensitive or reactive skin who may find the cooling sensation uncomfortable
- Anyone with a known allergy or sensitivity to synthetic cooling agents
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. However, individuals with very sensitive skin may experience a tingling or uncomfortable sensation. Always patch test new products.
Research notes
Research primarily focuses on its function as a TRPM8 agonist (cooling receptor activator). Studies indicate it provides a cooling sensation comparable to menthol but with less odor and potential for irritation. More long-term safety data would strengthen the evidence base.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. It is not a restricted ingredient but is typically used at low concentrations.
- Common uses
- Facial mists, Eye creams, Serums, Moisturizers, Body lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental impact depends on manufacturing practices and biodegradability. Specific data on its environmental fate is limited.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used as a menthol alternative because it lacks the strong odor and can be less irritating.
- It is commonly found in 'cooling' eye creams and facial mists designed to reduce puffiness.
Common questions
What is Dimethylcyclohexyl Ethylcarbamate in beauty products?
This is a lab-made ingredient that feels cool when applied to the skin, similar to the sensation you get from mint but without the strong scent. It works by interacting with temperature-sensitive receptors in your skin, tricking them into feeling cooler. It's often used in products meant to refresh, depuff, or soothe the skin, like eye creams or facial mists.
What does Dimethylcyclohexyl Ethylcarbamate do in a beauty product?
It activates the TRPM8 receptor, a protein on the surface of certain nerve cells in the skin that normally responds to cool temperatures. By binding to this receptor, the ingredient sends a signal to the brain that the skin is cooler than it actually is, creating a perceived cooling effect without actually lowering skin temperature.
Is Dimethylcyclohexyl Ethylcarbamate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. However, individuals with very sensitive skin may experience a tingling or uncomfortable sensation. Always patch test new products.
Who should be careful with Dimethylcyclohexyl Ethylcarbamate?
Those with very sensitive or reactive skin who may find the cooling sensation uncomfortable Anyone with a known allergy or sensitivity to synthetic cooling agents
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.