What Is Hydroxyethyldiethonium Polyisobutenyl Triethylaminosuccinate?
Hydroxyethyldiethonium polyisobutenyl triethylaminosuccinate is a lab-made ingredient created when polyisobutenyl succinic anhydride, a derivative of a lightweight synthetic oil, reacts with 2-(diethylamino)ethanol. This reaction links the two pieces together, giving the final material both water-loving and oil-loving parts. Because of that split personality, it behaves a lot like a gentle soap that can also keep oil and water from separating.
The raw building block, polyisobutene, has been used for decades in lubricants and adhesives. Chemists later found that by attaching it to mild amino alcohols they could turn it into a skin-friendly cleanser and stabilizer. Cosmetic chemists adopted the compound in the early 2000s as a way to create clear, sulfate-free washes and long-wear makeup removers that feel silky rather than squeaky.
To make it, manufacturers blend polyisobutenyl succinic anhydride with 2-(diethylamino)ethanol under controlled heat. The mix is then neutralized and purified to remove unwanted by-products, resulting in a light amber liquid that dissolves easily in both oils and certain water-based systems.
You will most often spot this ingredient in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup-removing balms, shower gels, creamy body washes, multi-phase serums and some moisturizing masks where stable oil-in-water texture is key.
Hydroxyethyldiethonium Polyisobutenyl Triethylaminosuccinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose this ingredient for two main roles that improve how a product works and feels:
- Cleansing: The molecule lifts away dirt, makeup and excess oil without stripping the skin’s natural barrier, leaving it soft instead of tight
- Emulsifying: It helps blend oil and water into a smooth, uniform lotion or gel so the product stays stable, looks appealing and spreads evenly
Who Can Use Hydroxyethyldiethonium Polyisobutenyl Triethylaminosuccinate
This cleanser–emulsifier is generally considered friendly for all major skin types. Normal and combination complexions benefit from its balanced cleansing power while oily skin appreciates its ability to lift excess sebum without a stripped afterfeel. Dry or mature skin usually tolerates it well because it is less harsh than many sulfate surfactants. Even sensitive skin often finds it comfortable, though anyone with a known intolerance to amine-based ingredients or succinate derivatives should proceed with caution.
The material is fully synthetic and contains no animal by-products, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Finished products remain vegan only if the rest of the formula and the brand’s policies also avoid animal-derived inputs and animal testing.
No research suggests that the ingredient poses specific risks to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Its large size limits skin penetration and it is not known to disturb hormones. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review any skincare product with a healthcare professional to be safe.
Hydroxyethyldiethonium polyisobutenyl triethylaminosuccinate is not a photosensitizer and does not make skin more prone to sunburn. There are no known interactions with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide or retinoids, allowing it to fit smoothly into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Hydroxyethyldiethonium polyisobutenyl triethylaminosuccinate can differ. The points below outline potential side effects, but when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product most people will not experience any issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, especially on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in those sensitized to amine or succinate compounds
- Transient eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes during cleansing
- Excess dryness or tightness when used in very high concentrations or with overly aggressive cleansing routines
- Potential formula instability when layered with strongly anionic surfactants, which may indirectly heighten irritation
If any of these reactions occur stop use immediately and consult a qualified healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Hydroxyethyldiethonium polyisobutenyl triethylaminosuccinate scores a 1 because its molecule is large, partially water-soluble and designed to rinse away rather than sit on skin. While it contains an oil-derived tail, the overall structure is not very occlusive and is typically used at low levels in wash-off or lightweight leave-on formulas. All of that means it is unlikely to clog pores for most users.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in the vast majority of cases.
Worth noting: real-world comedogenicity also depends on the full product formula and how thoroughly it is rinsed off, so results can vary slightly from person to person.
Summary
Hydroxyethyldiethonium polyisobutenyl triethylaminosuccinate serves mainly as a mild cleanser and a stabilizing emulsifier. Its split oil-loving and water-loving structure lets it lift oils, makeup and dirt while helping keep oil-in-water blends smooth and uniform.
The ingredient enjoys modest popularity: it pops up in sulfate-free cleansers, makeup removers and a handful of hybrid serum textures but is not as widespread as classics like cocamidopropyl betaine.
Overall safety data look good. It has low irritation potential, minimal risk of pore clogging and no known long-term health concerns. As with any new skincare ingredient, doing a small patch test before full use is the simplest way to make sure your skin agrees with it.