What Is Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate?
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate is a lab-made salt that forms when maleic acid reacts with a small molecule created from diethylene glycol and 1-aminopropane. The result is a stable, water-soluble ingredient that can link up with damaged areas of hair or skin. It first appeared in professional hair salons in the mid-2010s as the star of so-called bond-building treatments, then quickly moved into at-home products once users noticed stronger shinier strands after chemical services.
Manufacturers make the ingredient in closed stainless-steel reactors where the two starting materials are carefully combined under controlled heat and pH. After purification and drying the finished powder is blended into liquid or cream formulas.
You will most often spot Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate in bond-repair shampoos, conditioners, intensive masks, leave-in sprays, chemical straightening or perm lotions and, more recently, in multitasking skin serums and creams that promise smoother texture and better moisture retention.
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking molecule brings several useful actions to cosmetic formulas:
- Hair conditioning: It helps rebuild broken bonds inside the hair shaft which can reduce breakage, boost shine and make strands feel silky without heavy oils or waxes.
- Hair waving or straightening: During chemical services it protects internal hair structure so curls come out bouncy or straight styles stay sleek while minimizing the usual damage that strong chemicals cause.
- Skin conditioning: When used in creams or serums it can attract water and smooth the skin surface leaving it softer and more supple.
Who Can Use Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate
This ingredient suits nearly every skin type including dry, oily, combination and sensitive because it is water soluble and free from heavy oils that might clog pores. Very reactive or broken skin may still feel a tingle due to its mildly acidic nature so caution is advised in that case.
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate is made entirely in a lab with no animal by-products which makes it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians. Cruelty status depends on the finished brand but the raw material itself is animal free.
Pregnant or breastfeeding users can generally apply products containing this ingredient since it stays on the surface layers of hair or skin and is not known to absorb systemically. This is informational not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new products just to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. Normal sun protection habits are still recommended. It is also color-safe for dyed hair and works with every curl pattern from straight to coily.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur even though most users experience none of them when the ingredient is correctly formulated.
- Mild scalp or skin irritation such as itching or burning
- Redness or rash from an allergic contact response
- Eye stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Temporary dryness or stiffness in hair if overused without adequate moisture conditioners
- Reduced effectiveness or slight texture change when mixed with very strong acids or bases in DIY routines
If any discomfort, irritation or other adverse reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate scores a 0 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. The molecule is highly water soluble, contains no heavy oils or waxes and rinses cleanly from skin and hair, so it is very unlikely to block pores. For this reason the ingredient is generally safe for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that overall product formulas matter. If Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate is blended with rich butters, silicones or other pore-clogging agents, the finished product may still feel heavy on oily or acneic skin.
Summary
Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate acts as a bond builder and conditioner, helping repair damaged hair bonds for stronger, shinier strands, shielding hair during chemical straightening or perming and adding lightweight hydration and smoothness to skin. It works by seeking out broken disulfide links in hair or weak spots in the skin’s surface and forming new ionic connections that reinforce structure and hold on to moisture.
The compound rose to fame through salon bond-repair treatments and has since found its way into shampoos, masks and even face serums, making it one of the more talked-about lab-grown actives in recent years. Safety data show low irritation risk, no known systemic absorption and no comedogenic concerns, making it suitable for most users. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is still wise to patch test a product containing Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate before full use just to make sure your skin or scalp agrees with it.