What Is Bis-Coumaramidobutane?
Bis-Coumaramidobutane, also known by its scientific name N,N’-Dicoumaroylputrescine, is a lab-made molecule inspired by coumarin, a fragrant compound that occurs naturally in tonka beans, sweet clover and several other plants. Chemists link two coumarin units to a short carbon chain called putrescine, creating a stable structure that is easy to add to skincare formulas. Although coumarin has been used in perfumery since the late 1800s, Bis-Coumaramidobutane is far newer. It first appeared in cosmetic research as scientists looked for gentle skin conditioners that also offered a pleasant sensory feel. Today most manufacturers produce it through controlled chemical synthesis, which gives a highly pure and consistent ingredient without relying on large-scale plant harvesting.
You will usually spot Bis-Coumaramidobutane in leave-on products where a smooth after-feel is important. Common examples include light facial moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sheet masks and soothing after-sun gels. It can also be blended into wash-off treatments such as creamy cleansers or rinse-out masks to improve skin softness even after the product is removed.
Bis-Coumaramidobutane’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas, Bis-Coumaramidobutane serves one main purpose that can make a noticeable difference in how skin looks and feels.
Skin conditioning: This ingredient helps soften and smooth the outer layer of the skin. By forming a lightweight flexible film, it reduces rough texture and leaves the surface feeling silky. Its gentle nature suits daily use, supporting a healthy moisture balance without a greasy residue.
Who Can Use Bis-Coumaramidobutane
This skin conditioner is generally suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, combination and even sensitive skin, thanks to its light non-occlusive film that does not clog pores or leave a greasy layer. Those with a known allergy to coumarin or related fragrance ingredients should avoid it, as cross-reactivity is possible.
Because the ingredient is made entirely through controlled lab synthesis with no animal-derived raw materials, it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Current data show no specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when Bis-Coumaramidobutane is used at the low levels found in cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a doctor to be on the safe side.
The molecule has not been linked to photosensitivity, so it does not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal daily sun protection is still advised.
Bis-Coumaramidobutane plays well with most common actives, including niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and gentle exfoliating acids, and it remains stable across a wide pH range.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Bis-Coumaramidobutane can vary from one person to another. The points below list potential issues, yet they are not expected to be the typical experience for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness, itching or a stinging feel, more likely on broken or highly reactive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to coumarin or similar fragrance molecules
- Temporary eye irritation if product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare clogging of pores in very acne-prone skin if used in a heavy, occlusive base
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Bis-Coumaramidobutane is a lightweight molecule that forms a thin, breathable film rather than a heavy occlusive layer. It is not oily, has a low molecular weight and does not tend to accumulate in pores, so it poses little risk of triggering blackheads or whiteheads in most users. It remains stable across a wide pH range and does not readily oxidize, factors that help keep pore blockage low.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most formulations, especially when paired with non greasy bases. Only exceptionally sensitive or severely congested skin types might notice issues, usually when the overall product is rich or waxy.
If combined with highly occlusive oils or butters the overall formula could still contribute to pore clogging, so the full ingredient list matters.
Summary
Bis-Coumaramidobutane is a lab crafted skin conditioner that smooths and softens the skin surface by forming a flexible non greasy film. This film helps reduce rough texture and leaves a silky after feel without trapping excess oil or sweat. It is not yet a mainstream hero but is gaining attention in gentle moisturizers and masks because it delivers a pleasant sensory finish and pairs well with popular actives like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.
Current safety data show a very low irritation and allergy profile when used at typical cosmetic levels, with no links to photosensitivity or hormonal action. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a product first to confirm personal tolerance before applying it to larger areas.