What Is 3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide?
3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide is a lab-made ester produced by joining a dimethylamide version of succinic acid with a ring-shaped alcohol called 3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexanol. Chemists favor this combination because it creates a small, stable molecule that feels light on skin yet stays put long enough to deliver benefits. The ingredient first appeared in specialty skincare labs in the early 2000s when formulators were hunting for new skin conditioners that could match natural oils without their heavy, greasy feel. Today it is synthesized through a controlled esterification process that blends purified raw materials under moderate heat and pressure, followed by filtration and deodorization to keep the final material clear and low-odor.
You are most likely to find 3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide in leave-on products like facial moisturizers, lightweight lotions, anti-aging serums, sheet masks and hand treatments. Its silky texture and compatibility with both water and oil phases make it a versatile choice for modern, fast-absorbing formulas aimed at boosting skin softness and overall comfort.
3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves a single yet important role in personal care
As a skin conditioning agent it smooths the skin surface and helps lock in moisture, giving formulas a soft finish without heaviness. By mimicking some of the slip and suppleness of natural sebum it leaves skin feeling hydrated and comfortable, which is why formulators rely on it to elevate the sensory profile of creams, lotions and serums.
Who Can Use 3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide
This lightweight skin conditioner is generally suitable for all skin types, including oily, combination, normal and dry skin, because it delivers slip and softness without clogging pores or leaving a greasy film. Sensitive skin also tends to tolerate it well, though anyone with a known sensitivity to esters or amide compounds should proceed with care. There are no reports suggesting it is unsuitable for mature, reactive or acne-prone skin.
The molecule is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived fragments, so products using it can be formulated as vegan and vegetarian friendly. Always check the full ingredient list, as other components in a formula might not share the same status.
No published research links this ingredient to hormonal disruption or developmental toxicity, so it is not automatically restricted during pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing parents should show the complete product label to their healthcare provider for personalized guidance before use.
3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide does not absorb UV light or make skin more reactive to the sun, so it is not considered photosensitizing. It is also fragrance-free and color-free, which further lowers the risk of irritation for scent-sensitive users.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of 3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide can vary from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential reactions and are unlikely for most users when the ingredient is incorporated correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Transient skin irritation such as mild redness or stinging
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to esters or amide compounds
- Temporary acne flare in those extremely prone to breakouts
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally migrates into the eye area
If any discomfort, swelling or persistent irritation develops discontinue use and seek advice from a qualified medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
On the standard 0-5 scale 3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide scores a 1. The molecule is small with balanced water and oil affinity so it spreads in a thin layer instead of forming a heavy film that can trap debris in pores. Formulators also use it at moderate levels which further lowers clogging potential.
Because of this low score the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Remember that a product’s overall tendency to clog pores depends on the full recipe and individual skin behavior, not on one ingredient alone.
Summary
3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl Succinate Dimethylamide is a lab-crafted skin conditioner that smooths and moisturizes by imitating the slip of natural oils while feeling weightless on the skin. Its mixed water and oil loving structure lets it blend easily into modern creams, lotions and serums, giving them a silky afterfeel without greasiness.
It is a niche but growing ingredient, most common in forward-thinking skincare lines that prioritize a refined texture.
Available safety data point to a low risk of irritation or sensitization, and regulators have issued no special limits on its use. Still, it is wise to patch test any new product containing this ingredient before full-face application just to be safe.