What Is Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60?
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60 is a lab made ingredient created by attaching about 60 units of ethylene oxide to hydrogenated dimer dilinoleyl alcohol, which itself comes from the fatty acids found in natural plant oils like soybean or sunflower. The result is a creamy fluid that mixes easily with both water and oil. Chemists began exploring this family of ingredients in the 1970s when the demand for gentler, more stable cleansers and lotions grew. By tweaking plant based oils with hydrogen and then adding ethylene oxide, they produced a material that could clean the skin without stripping it and hold oil and water together in smooth blends. Today, manufacturers rely on large scale reactors to control temperature and pressure while they hydrogenate the oil, link the molecules into dimers, and finish with ethoxylation. Because of its versatile texture and mildness you will spot Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60 in face masks, daily moisturizers, anti aging creams, makeup removers, cream cleansers and hair conditioners.
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multi tasking ingredient earns its place on an ingredient list for more than one reason
- Cleansing: It lifts away dirt, makeup and excess oil while keeping skin comfortable, making formulas feel softer and less squeaky after rinsing
- Emulsifying: It binds water and oil so creams stay smooth and don’t split on the shelf which means a longer lasting product and a pleasant, even glide during application
Who Can Use Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60
Because it is a gentle cleansing and emulsifying agent with a light, non greasy feel, Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60 is generally well suited to dry, normal and combination skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it too, thanks to its mildness and low likelihood of stripping the skin’s natural barrier. Extremely oily or acne prone users may prefer lighter formulations but the ingredient itself is not considered highly pore clogging so it can still be used if the overall formula is balanced.
The material is manufactured from plant derived fatty acids and processed synthetically, so it is typically acceptable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product contains no other animal sourced additives.
No specific studies flag Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60 as a concern for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their healthcare provider review any skincare products they plan to use.
The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity, and it does not interfere with common actives such as vitamin C, niacinamide or retinoids, making it easy to slot into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60 can differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects though most users will experience none of them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as transient redness or stinging in very sensitive individuals
- Contact dermatitis in those allergic to polyethylene glycol derivatives
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Enhanced penetration of other ingredients which could amplify their own irritant potential on compromised skin
If any discomfort or unexpected reaction occurs discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60 carries a low risk of clogging pores because its bulky, water-friendly structure keeps it from building up in follicle openings and it leaves little occlusive residue after rinsing. The molecule is more soluble than straight plant oils which further limits the chance of congestion. This low score makes it generally acceptable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the rest of the formula is lightweight and non-greasy. In leave-on products the overall blend matters more than this single ingredient, so users should still consider the full ingredient list.
Summary
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleth-60 works mainly as a gentle cleanser and reliable emulsifier. Its long, partly oil-like backbone can grab onto dirt and sebum while the attached ethylene oxide units mix effortlessly with water so it rinses away cleanly. The same dual nature lets it bind oil and water phases in creams giving formulas a smooth stable texture.
Although not as famous as staples like glycerin or cetyl alcohol it enjoys steady use in specialty cleansers, cream masks and conditioners where formulators want mildness plus silky feel without heaviness. Safety data show a low irritation profile and the ingredient is considered non-sensitizing for the vast majority of users. As with any cosmetic component it is wise to patch test a new product first to rule out personal sensitivities and enjoy its benefits confidently.