Ingredient review
Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide
INCI: ETHYLENE DIHYDROGENATED TALLOWAMIDE
A synthetic wax that helps thicken and stabilize products, but offers no direct skin benefit.
In plain English
Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide is a man-made wax derived from tallow (animal fat). In skincare and makeup, it acts like a thickening agent, giving creams and lipsticks a smooth, firm texture. It doesn't actively moisturize or treat the skin—it's more of a helper ingredient that keeps the product feeling nice and stable on the shelf.
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
Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide 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 Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide.
- 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 created by reacting ethylene diamine with hydrogenated tallow fatty acids. It is a solid, waxy substance at room temperature.
How it works
It increases the viscosity (thickness) of oil-based and water-in-oil formulas, helping to create a stable, creamy texture. It also helps suspend pigments and other solid particles evenly throughout the product.
Pros
Improves texture
Gives creams and lipsticks a smooth, creamy feel that spreads easily without being greasy.
Stabilizes formulas
Helps keep oil and water mixed together, so your product doesn't separate or change consistency over time.
Cons and cautions
Animal-derived
Made from tallow (animal fat), so it's not suitable for vegans or those avoiding animal products.
No skin benefit
It's purely a texture and stability ingredient—it doesn't moisturize, soothe, or protect the skin.
Best for
- Anyone using conventional lipsticks or creams who wants a smooth, stable texture
- People who are not concerned about animal-derived ingredients in cosmetics
Use caution if
- Vegans and vegetarians who prefer plant-based ingredients
- Those seeking active, skin-beneficial ingredients in their products
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed research specifically on Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide. Safety is inferred from its chemical class (amide waxes) and long history of use in cosmetics. No known toxicity or sensitization issues at normal use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng). No known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Creams, Lotions, Hair products
- Environmental note
- Tallow is a byproduct of the meat industry, so its use can be seen as reducing waste. However, it is not plant-based or synthetic, which may be a concern for some consumers.
Good to know
- Tallow is a rendered form of beef or mutton fat. Hydrogenation makes it more stable and less likely to go rancid.
- This ingredient is not water-soluble and is best used in oil-based or emulsion formulas.
Common questions
What is Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide in beauty products?
Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide is a man-made wax derived from tallow (animal fat). In skincare and makeup, it acts like a thickening agent, giving creams and lipsticks a smooth, firm texture. It doesn't actively moisturize or treat the skin—it's more of a helper ingredient that keeps the product feeling nice and stable on the shelf.
What does Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide do in a beauty product?
It increases the viscosity (thickness) of oil-based and water-in-oil formulas, helping to create a stable, creamy texture. It also helps suspend pigments and other solid particles evenly throughout the product.
Is Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Ethylene Dihydrogenated Tallowamide?
Vegans and vegetarians who prefer plant-based ingredients Those seeking active, skin-beneficial ingredients in their products
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.