What Is Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate?
Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate, sometimes listed on labels as oxydiethylene dibenzoate, is a synthetic ester created by joining diethylene glycol with two molecules of benzoic acid. The result is a clear, slightly oily liquid that blends easily with many cosmetic ingredients. First developed as an industrial plasticiser in the mid-20th century, formulators soon noticed its gentle feel and ability to soften materials. These traits made it a natural fit for personal care products, and it has been used in cosmetics for several decades.
Manufacturing involves an esterification process: diethylene glycol reacts with benzoic acid under controlled heat and the presence of a catalyst, producing water as a by-product that is removed to drive the reaction forward. The finished ester is then purified to cosmetic grade.
Because of its smooth texture and compatibility with both oils and some water-based systems, Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate appears in a range of products such as hair masks, leave-in conditioners, styling creams, skin moisturizers, hand creams, anti-aging lotions, nail treatments and certain makeup formulas where it helps keep the product flexible and pleasant to apply.
Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulations this ingredient offers multiple practical benefits
- Hair conditioning: coats the hair shaft to reduce roughness, improve manageability and add a light gloss without heavy buildup
- Plasticiser: keeps films in products like styling gels, mascara and nail polish flexible so they resist cracking while staying comfortable on hair or skin
- Emollient: provides a silky slip that helps spread creams and lotions smoothly, leaving skin feeling soft and lightly hydrated
Who Can Use Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including dry, normal, oily and combination skin. Its light emollient feel means it rarely feels heavy or greasy, making it a practical choice for those prone to congestion. Sensitive skin can usually handle it too, as it has a low record of irritation, though very reactive individuals should still be mindful of any new formula.
Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate is synthetically produced with no raw materials from animals so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at levels common in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new personal care products to their routine.
The ester does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there is no known link to photosensitivity. It is also odorless and free from common allergens like nuts, gluten or soy, which can be helpful for people avoiding those triggers.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate can vary from person to person. The points below cover potential issues that could occur, but most users experience none of them when products are formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in very sensitive individuals
- Contact dermatitis if the user has a rare personal allergy to the ester or other formula ingredients
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Scalp buildup when used in extremely heavy hair treatments on fine or low porosity hair
If any negative reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 – Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate is a lightweight ester that spreads easily without leaving a heavy or occlusive film. Its molecular structure is not highly oily or waxy, so it is less likely to clog pores compared with thicker plant oils or butters. For most users, it sits on the skin surface just long enough to add slip then gradually evaporates or gets wiped away, keeping pore blockage risk low.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in the concentrations typically found in cosmetics.
Formulas that pair it with heavier waxes or comedogenic oils can change the overall pore-clogging potential, so always consider the full ingredient list.
Summary
Diethylene Glycol Dibenzoate acts as a hair conditioner, plasticiser and emollient. It smooths hair cuticles for easier detangling, keeps cosmetic films flexible so products do not crack or flake and adds a silky glide that leaves skin feeling soft.
While not a headline ingredient, it shows up quietly in a wide range of leave-in conditioners, styling products, lotions and nail formulas because it delivers dependable slip and flexibility at low cost.
Current research and regulatory reviews label it as low risk when used topically at normal cosmetic levels. Most people tolerate it well, but it is always smart to patch test any new product to be certain it agrees with your individual skin.