What Is Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride?
Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride is a plant-derived ingredient that starts with cottonseed oil. First the oil is hydrogenated, turning its unsaturated fatty acids into saturated ones so the final material is more stable and solid at room temperature. From this hydrogenated oil, chemists isolate monoglycerides, which are then reacted with acetic acid to create an acetyl ester. The result is a wax-like substance that melts smoothly on skin.
Cottonseed oil has been used for cooking since the late 1800s, and its by-products found their way into personal care as formulators looked for reliable plant waxes to replace animal fats. The acetylated and hydrogenated version gained popularity in the 1970s when cosmetic chemists needed a vegetable-based occlusive that would feel lighter than petrolatum but still lock in moisture.
Today you will see Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride in moisturizers, night creams, body butters, hand balms, stick formulations like lip balms and deodorants, as well as certain masks and anti-aging creams where a rich, comforting finish is desired.
Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one main purpose in skin care formulas, delivering a specific benefit to both the product and the user.
As an occlusive, Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride forms a breathable barrier on the surface of skin that slows water loss. This helps keep skin hydrated for longer, softens rough patches and imparts a smooth glide to creams and balms so they spread easily without a greasy feel.
Who Can Use Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride
This waxy occlusive works well for dry, normal and some combination skin because it seals in moisture without feeling as greasy as petrolatum. Very oily or acne-prone skin may find it too rich since heavy occlusives can sit on the surface and contribute to a congested look.
The ingredient is sourced from cottonseed oil and contains no animal by-products so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
No research shows specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask a doctor before adding new skincare, just to be safe.
Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common active ingredients. It is also odorless and free of common allergens like gluten, soy and nuts which makes it a gentle choice for most users.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride differ from person to person. The points below describe potential issues, though most people will not notice any problems when the ingredient is used as intended by the manufacturer.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in sensitive individuals
- Allergic contact dermatitis if a person is allergic to trace cottonseed proteins left in the material
- Clogged pores or breakouts on very oily or acne-prone skin due to the heavy occlusive film
- Greasy or heavy after-feel when applied too thickly
If any discomfort or irritation occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2 out of 5
Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride is a semi-solid wax that stays mostly on the surface of skin rather than sinking deep into pores. Its large molecular size and low level of free fatty acids lower the chance of pore blockage compared with raw cottonseed oil, yet it still forms a film that can trap dead cells and sebum if skin is already very oily. Because of this middle-of-the-road profile, people who break out easily may want to use it sparingly or choose lighter formulas.
No published studies link this ingredient to severe acne flare-ups and many brands use it in lip balms and body creams without complaint, but skin that clogs at the slightest hint of wax could react.
Summary
Acetylated Hydrogenated Cottonseed Glyceride is mainly an occlusive, laying down a light waxy veil that slows water from evaporating so skin feels softer and stays hydrated longer. It also improves texture, giving creams a smooth melt-in spread and helping solid sticks keep their shape.
It is not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid yet formulators appreciate it as a dependable plant-based alternative to petrolatum, so you will spot it in a steady trickle of moisturizers, balms and masks.
Overall safety is high with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. Still, every skin is different so test a small area first when trying any new product that contains this ingredient.