What Is Dibromocyanoacetamide?
Dibromocyanoacetamide is a lab-made preservative whose full chemical name is acetamide, 2,2-dibromo-2-cyano. In simple terms, it is an acetamide molecule that carries two bromine atoms and a single cyano group, a structure that gives it strong germ-fighting power. The ingredient was first explored in the 1960s when formulators were searching for alternatives to older, less stable preservatives. Over time it found a place in personal care products because it works well even at low levels and stays active across a wide pH range.
Manufacturing usually starts with cyanoacetamide, which is reacted with bromine under controlled temperature and pH. The mixture is then purified and milled into a fine, white powder that meets cosmetic-grade safety standards.
You will most often spot Dibromocyanoacetamide in water-rich items that need solid protection against microbes. These include facial masks, rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, conditioners, body lotions, hand creams, wet wipes and occasional spot treatments where product freshness is critical.
Dibromocyanoacetamide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one key role in beauty formulas
As an antimicrobial, Dibromocyanoacetamide stops bacteria, yeast and mold from growing in the product. By keeping the formula clean it guards the user against possible skin irritation caused by spoiled products and extends the shelf life, allowing the item to stay safe and effective for longer without changing its texture or smell.
Who Can Use Dibromocyanoacetamide
Dibromocyanoacetamide is generally considered suitable for all skin types, including oily, dry, combination and even slightly sensitive skin, because it is used at very low levels and is rinsed off or left on in minimal amounts. People with a history of preservative allergies or ultra-reactive skin may still want to check a product’s full ingredient list since any preservative can pose a risk for them.
The ingredient is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived substances, so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the preservative appears at the concentrations allowed in cosmetics. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run the product by a qualified healthcare professional to be extra safe.
Dibromocyanoacetamide does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no special need to adjust your sun protection routine beyond standard daily SPF use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from the topical use of Dibromocyanoacetamide can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential reactions, but most users will not experience any of them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to the molecule
- Dry patches if the formulation is not well balanced
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare cumulative sensitization after long-term daily use
If you notice any of these issues while using a product that contains Dibromocyanoacetamide stop using it and seek guidance from a medical professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5 (non-comedogenic)
Dibromocyanoacetamide is a small, water-soluble molecule that does not leave an oily film on the skin and is used at very low concentrations, factors that make it unlikely to clog pores. It sits in the water phase of a formula, rinses away easily in wash-off products and stays well dispersed in leave-ons, so it does not accumulate inside follicles.
Because of its zero comedogenic score this preservative is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Only in extremely heavy formulations packed with other pore-clogging ingredients could its presence indirectly contribute to congestion, but the preservative itself is not the culprit.
Summary
Dibromocyanoacetamide is a synthetic antimicrobial that keeps cosmetics fresh by stopping bacteria, yeast and mold. It works by disrupting microbial cell processes, a property linked to its bromine and cyano groups, allowing formulas to stay stable with minimal change in texture or scent.
The ingredient is a niche choice, far less common than parabens or phenoxyethanol, yet it remains valued in certain water-rich products for reliable preservation at low doses.
When used within regulatory limits it shows a strong safety profile with low irritation rates. Even so, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product containing Dibromocyanoacetamide before full use.