What Is T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide?
T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide is a lab-made molecule that belongs to a family of compounds called hydroxamic acids. Chemists create it by linking a tert-butyl group to a benzamide ring, then attaching a hydroxylated phenylacetamide segment. The result is a stable, white to off-white powder that dissolves well in oily or alcohol-based mixes.
This ingredient was introduced in the early 2000s when researchers looked for new antioxidants that could stand up to heat, light and air better than traditional choices like vitamin E. Its sturdy structure lets it keep working inside a bottle of lotion or serum for a long time, which made it popular with skin-care formulators.
Production starts with common petrochemical feedstocks. Through a series of controlled reactions—nitration, reduction, acylation and hydroxylation—the raw materials are converted step by step into the finished compound. Strict purification follows to remove any leftover solvents or by-products so the final powder meets cosmetic-grade standards.
You will most often see T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide in leave-on products such as anti-aging serums, day creams, eye creams, sunscreens, after-sun lotions and sheet masks. Its ability to fight free radicals and support the skin’s natural barrier makes it a handy add-on in formulas aimed at preventing early signs of aging and shielding skin from daily stress.
T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin-care formulas this ingredient pulls double duty
- Antioxidant – It neutralizes free radicals that form when skin is exposed to sunlight or pollution helping to slow the look of fine lines and dullness
- Skin protecting – By supporting the skin’s natural barrier it helps keep moisture in and irritants out which can lead to a smoother healthier appearance
Who Can Use T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide
This ingredient is considered friendly for most skin types. Dry and mature skin can benefit from its moisture holding and antioxidant properties while normal and combination skin appreciate its light feel. Oily or acne-prone users usually tolerate it well because it does not clog pores or add extra oil. Highly reactive or damaged skin should approach any new antioxidant with caution but reports of irritation are rare for this one.
Because it is fully synthetic and made without animal by-products it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Manufacturers typically use plant or petroleum-based starting materials and no animal testing is needed for regulatory approval in many regions.
No studies have flagged specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, ingredient safety data in these groups is limited so this information is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should review new skincare choices with a qualified healthcare provider just to be safe.
T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. In fact, its free-radical fighting ability can give extra support when skin faces UV exposure, especially when paired with sunscreen filters.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide differ from person to person. The effects below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used at levels typical for cosmetic products made by reputable brands.
- Mild redness or warmth in people with very sensitive skin
- Transient tingling that subsides within minutes of application
- Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching flaking or small bumps
- Interaction with strong exfoliating acids possibly leading to slight stinging if layered immediately after a high concentration AHA or BHA
If any discomfort swelling or persistent irritation develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (non to very low)
T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide is a dry, powdery antioxidant that dissolves in lightweight solvents rather than heavy oils. It sits on skin in an extremely thin film and does not leave waxy or greasy residue that could block pores. Formulas usually use it at low concentrations, further reducing any clogging risk.
Because of this the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
If it appears alongside a high level of comedogenic oils or butters in a formula, overall pore-clogging potential will depend more on those carriers than on this antioxidant itself.
Summary
T-Butylbenzamido Hydroxylphenylacetamide acts mainly as an antioxidant and skin protecting helper. It scavenges free radicals created by UV rays or pollution and supports the skin barrier so moisture stays in and irritants stay out. Its bulky tert-butyl and benzamide groups make the molecule stable against heat light and air which lets it keep performing inside the bottle and on skin for longer than many natural antioxidants.
It is still a niche ingredient compared with household names like vitamin C or E yet formulators looking for longer shelf life and gentle performance are using it more often in serums daily creams and sunscreens.
Safety data show a very low rate of irritation or allergy and no known systemic concerns when used at cosmetic amounts. As with any new skincare addition it is smart to do a quick patch test first to make sure your individual skin agrees with the formula.