What Is Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate?
Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate is a plant-derived lipid ingredient made by first joining glycerin with natural resin acids called dehydroabietic acid and tetrahydroabietic acid, then carefully adding hydrogen to stabilize the blend. The resin acids usually come from pine or other conifer trees that produce rosin, a material long used in varnishes and glues. Cosmetic chemists began exploring rosin derivatives in the mid-20th century because they form gentle, film-forming layers on skin, and the hydrogenation step helped remove the stickiness and odor that limited early versions.
The manufacturing process starts with purified rosin acids that are reacted with food-grade glycerin to form an ester. This ester is then hydrogenated under controlled temperature and pressure to create a smooth, odor-free, cream-colored wax. The final material is low in free acids and insoluble grit, so it is easy to disperse in creams, balms, sticks and emulsions.
You will most often find Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate in lip balms, lipsticks, barrier creams, hand salves, protective baby products, thick night masks and water-resistant sunscreens. Its waxy texture and skin-friendly profile make it popular in clean beauty formulas that aim to avoid mineral waxes or petroleum derivatives.
Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is mainly valued for its skin protecting ability. When added to a formula it melts at body temperature and forms a breathable shield that locks in moisture, cushions the skin surface and helps defend against wind, cold and pollution. The protective film can also improve the wear time of color cosmetics and reduce transepidermal water loss, leaving skin feeling soft and comfortable.
Who Can Use Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate
This film-forming wax suits most skin types, especially dry, normal and combination skin that benefit from extra moisture retention. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well because it lacks common irritants, while oily or acne-prone users may want lighter formulations since heavy balms can feel occlusive if layered too thickly.
The ingredient is sourced from plant resin acids and vegetable glycerin, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences provided the finished product contains no animal-derived additives elsewhere in the formula.
No evidence suggests risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically in standard cosmetic concentrations. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review new skincare with a doctor to be safe.
Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate does not cause photosensitivity and can be worn day or night without increasing sun sensitivity.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate vary from person to person. The effects below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to rosin derivatives
- Mild redness or itching on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Temporary clogged pores or blemishes in users prone to acne if applied in thick layers
- Stinging or eye watering if the product migrates into the eyes
If any irritation or other adverse effect occurs, stop use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate is a high-molecular-weight wax that sits on top of the skin rather than seeping into pores. It is largely inert, has a smooth refined texture and contains very little free resin acid, so it rarely triggers breakouts. That said, very occlusive balms that rely on large amounts of this ingredient can trap existing oil and debris, which is why it is not given a perfect zero.
Most acne-prone users will find it acceptable in light to medium-weight formulas, but heavy salves may feel too rich if you are already experiencing congestion.
Because it functions as a protective film former, it can slightly slow the evaporation of sebum. People living in hot humid climates or using multiple heavy products may notice this effect more.
Summary
Hydrogenated Glyceryl Dehydroabietate/Tetrahydroabietate is mainly a skin-protecting, film-forming wax. It melts with body heat, spreads easily and leaves a thin breathable layer that locks in moisture, cushions the surface and boosts the longevity of makeup.
While not as famous as shea butter or beeswax, it has a steady following in clean beauty lip care, barrier creams and water-resistant sunscreens thanks to its plant origin and low scent.
Topical use is considered very safe with a low allergy rate, though anyone sensitive to rosin derivatives should stay alert. As with any new cosmetic, do a patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.