What Is Adipic Acid Dihydrazide?
Adipic Acid Dihydrazide, also called Hexanedioic Acid Dihydrazine, is a small synthetic molecule made by reacting adipic acid with hydrazine. Adipic acid itself is most often obtained from the controlled oxidation of cyclohexane, a compound that comes from petroleum. When the two substances meet under carefully monitored temperature and pH conditions they join to form a white, odorless powder that dissolves well in water.
This ingredient first caught industrial attention in the 1970s as a cross-linker for water-based paints and inks. Its gentle nature on skin and its stability in water soon led formulators to test it in personal care. Over time producers refined purification steps so any leftover hydrazine, which could be harsh, is removed. That opened the door for its use in skincare.
Today Adipic Acid Dihydrazide shows up in hydrating sheet masks, daily moisturizers, lightweight gels, soothing after-sun products, eye creams and even some fine-fragrance body mists. It helps round out scent blends while also supporting soft, comfortable skin.
Adipic Acid Dihydrazide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In beauty formulas this ingredient serves two key jobs that work hand in hand for a pleasant user experience.
- Fragrance: It can subtly extend or fix a scent so the aroma of a cream or mist lingers a bit longer on the skin. This helps masks, lotions and sprays smell fresh without the need for higher levels of perfume oils.
- Moisturising: Adipic Acid Dihydrazide holds water near the skin surface and supports a smooth feel. By drawing and locking in moisture it can reduce the tight, dry sensation that often follows cleansing, leaving skin soft and cushioned.
Who Can Use Adipic Acid Dihydrazide
This ingredient is considered gentle and suits most skin types, from dry and mature to combination and oily. Its water-binding ability is especially helpful for dry or dehydrated skin, while its light texture keeps it from feeling heavy on oilier complexions. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well because it has a low tendency to cause irritation, though extremely reactive skin should still watch for any personal triggers.
Adipic Acid Dihydrazide is made through an entirely synthetic process and contains no animal material, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Cruelty-free status depends on the specific brand’s testing policies rather than the ingredient itself.
Current safety data show no known issues for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when this ingredient is used in normal cosmetic amounts. That said this is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products, just to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitising. It also plays well with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and retinol, giving formulators plenty of flexibility.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Adipic Acid Dihydrazide can differ from person to person. The points below describe potential reactions, but these are not expected for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth at the application site
- Transient stinging or tingling, usually disappearing within minutes
- Itching or a light rash in individuals with an existing sensitivity to hydrazide compounds
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis, marked by persistent redness, swelling or bumps
- Eye irritation if a product containing the ingredient accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these effects occur and do not quickly resolve, stop using the product and consult a medical professional for advice.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Adipic Acid Dihydrazide is highly water soluble, used at low concentrations and leaves no oily film on skin, all of which mean it has virtually no chance of clogging pores. Its molecular size is small but its hydrophilic nature keeps it from accumulating inside follicles where comedones form. For this reason it is generally considered a safe pick for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
No data suggest it interferes with common acne treatments, and it does not alter sebum flow. If breakouts occur in a formula containing this ingredient, they are more likely linked to heavier emollients or occlusives in the blend rather than to Adipic Acid Dihydrazide itself.
Summary
Adipic Acid Dihydrazide mainly acts as a fragrance fixer and a lightweight moisturiser. Its chemical structure helps bind scent molecules so a product’s aroma lingers, while the same structure attracts and holds water near the skin surface to keep it soft and comfortable. Although effective, it is still a niche ingredient that appears in far fewer products than big names like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, so you may need to scan labels to spot it.
Current research shows it to be low risk for irritation with no comedogenic concerns, and it is suitable for most skin types including sensitive and acne prone. As with any new skincare product, do a quick patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with the full formula.