Ingredient review
Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide
INCI: HEXAMETHYLENE BIS-HYDROXYSTEARAMIDE
A synthetic wax that helps create a smooth, creamy texture in lip and skin products without clogging pores.
In plain English
Hexamethylene bis-hydroxystearamide is a man-made waxy ingredient that thickens oils and helps keep a product's texture smooth and stable. It is often used in lipsticks and balms to give a creamy, non-greasy feel that stays put. Think of it as a structural helper that makes the product easier to apply and more comfortable on the skin.
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
Hexamethylene 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 Hexamethylene 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 hexamethylene diamine. It forms a gel-like network in oils, giving body and stability to anhydrous (water-free) formulas.
How it works
When mixed into oils, it self-assembles into a three-dimensional network that thickens the oil phase. This creates a smooth, semi-solid texture that melts on contact with skin, providing a cushiony feel without heavy greasiness.
Pros
Smooth texture
Creates a creamy, non-greasy feel that glides on easily, making lip products and balms more comfortable to wear.
Stable formula
Helps prevent oil separation and keeps the product consistent over time, so you get the same texture from first to last use.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Not derived from natural sources, which may be a drawback for those seeking plant-based or natural cosmetics.
Limited skin research
There is not a lot of published research on how this ingredient interacts with skin over long-term use, though it is generally considered safe.
Best for
- Anyone who wants a smooth, non-greasy lip balm or lipstick
- People looking for stable, long-wearing cream or balm formulas
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Hexamethylene bis-hydroxystearamide is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as with any synthetic ingredient, those with very sensitive skin should patch test first.
Research notes
Available safety data comes from industry assessments and regulatory reviews. It is not associated with significant toxicity or irritation. Peer-reviewed studies on this specific ingredient are limited, but it is structurally similar to other safe amide waxes.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, USA, and many other regions. It is not classified as a restricted ingredient.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Lip balms, Creams, Lotions, Anhydrous balms
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its biodegradability is not well-documented. It is not known to be a major environmental concern at typical cosmetic use levels.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the middle or end of INCI lists because it is used at low to moderate concentrations.
- It is compatible with most oils and waxes, making it a versatile thickener for anhydrous products.
Common questions
What is Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide in beauty products?
Hexamethylene bis-hydroxystearamide is a man-made waxy ingredient that thickens oils and helps keep a product's texture smooth and stable. It is often used in lipsticks and balms to give a creamy, non-greasy feel that stays put. Think of it as a structural helper that makes the product easier to apply and more comfortable on the skin.
What does Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide do in a beauty product?
When mixed into oils, it self-assembles into a three-dimensional network that thickens the oil phase. This creates a smooth, semi-solid texture that melts on contact with skin, providing a cushiony feel without heavy greasiness.
Is Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide safe for most people?
Hexamethylene bis-hydroxystearamide is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as with any synthetic ingredient, those with very sensitive skin should patch test first.
Who should be careful with Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide?
Those who strictly avoid 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.