Ingredient review
Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide
INCI: DIMETHYLENECYCLOHEXANE BIS-HYDROXYSTEARAMIDE
A synthetic thickener and stabilizer that gives a smooth, non-greasy feel to creams and lip products, with a low risk of irritation.
In plain English
This ingredient is a man-made wax that helps thicken oils and keep the ingredients in a product well-mixed. It gives a smooth, creamy texture without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. You'll often find it in lipsticks and rich creams to improve how they feel when you apply them.
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
Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide 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 Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide.
- 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 amide wax derived from hydroxystearic acid and a cyclohexane-based diamine. It is a high-melting-point solid that acts as a gelling agent and thickener for oils and waxes.
How it works
When added to an oil phase, it forms a network of tiny crystals that trap the oil, creating a stable, semi-solid gel. This thickens the product and gives it a smooth, creamy texture that melts easily on contact with the skin.
Pros
Smooth texture
Creates a creamy, non-greasy feel that glides on easily, making it ideal for lip products and rich creams.
Good stabilizer
Helps keep oil-based formulas from separating, so the product stays consistent and effective throughout its use.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Made in a lab, which may be a turn-off for those who prefer only natural or plant-derived ingredients in their skincare.
Limited research
There isn't a lot of published research on how much of this ingredient absorbs into the skin or its long-term effects, though it is considered safe at typical use levels.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys smooth, creamy lipsticks or balms
- People looking for a stable, non-greasy moisturizer texture
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients
- Individuals with known rare allergies to amide compounds
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Research on this specific ingredient is limited, but it is structurally similar to other amide waxes that are well-tolerated. Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels have not flagged any major concerns.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. No specific concentration restrictions are commonly cited, but typical use is below 5%.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Lip balms, Creams, Lotions, Makeup
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, it is not biodegradable in the same way as natural waxes. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to accumulate in the environment.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in lipsticks to give a creamy, non-feathering finish.
- It is considered a low-irritant and low-comedogenic ingredient, suitable for most skin types.
Common questions
What is Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide in beauty products?
This ingredient is a man-made wax that helps thicken oils and keep the ingredients in a product well-mixed. It gives a smooth, creamy texture without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. You'll often find it in lipsticks and rich creams to improve how they feel when you apply them.
What does Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide do in a beauty product?
When added to an oil phase, it forms a network of tiny crystals that trap the oil, creating a stable, semi-solid gel. This thickens the product and gives it a smooth, creamy texture that melts easily on contact with the skin.
Is Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide safe for most people?
Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Dimethylenecyclohexane Bis-Hydroxystearamide?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients Individuals with known rare allergies to amide compounds
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.