What Is Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide?
Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide is a blended aluminum salt created from benzoic acid, a compound that occurs in many fruits and spices, and stearic acid, a fatty acid commonly sourced from vegetable oils. When these acids react with an aluminum base, they form a fine white powder that disperses easily in oils and creams. The ingredient entered cosmetic labs in the late twentieth century when formulators searched for plant-derived thickeners that could replace heavier mineral waxes. Production usually involves neutralizing purified benzoic and stearic acids with aluminum hydroxide under controlled heat, then milling the solid to a uniform, silky texture.
You will most often spot Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide in creamy makeup, rich moisturizers, sunscreens, mask pastes and leave-on treatments where a smooth glide and stable thickness are needed. It is valued for giving products a plush feel without adding greasiness.
Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays a single but important role in formulas.
As a viscosity-controlling agent it gives lotions, creams and color cosmetics the right thickness so they neither drip nor feel heavy. By stabilizing texture it helps active ingredients stay evenly mixed and ensures each application feels consistent from the first use to the last.
Who Can Use Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide
Because it sits on the surface and mainly controls texture, Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide is generally considered suitable for dry, normal, combination and oily skin alike. People with very reactive or allergy-prone skin may want to keep an eye on how their skin feels since aluminum salts can occasionally trigger redness in extremely sensitive individuals, though this is rare.
The ingredient itself is mineral based and the acids used to create it often come from plant sources, so it can be vegan and vegetarian friendly. That said, stearic acid is sometimes sourced from animal fat, so strict vegans should look for brands that certify their raw materials as plant derived.
Available safety data show minimal absorption through intact skin, so products containing this ingredient are not expected to pose concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare choices past a qualified healthcare professional to be on the safe side.
Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide does not increase sun sensitivity and can even help sunscreens stay evenly blended. It is fragrance free and nonvolatile, making it a good choice for daily use in leave-on or rinse-off products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions only; when the ingredient is properly formulated most users will not experience any problems.
- Mild skin redness or warmth short-lived irritation in sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis rare allergic response presenting as patches of itching or flaking
- Acne flare-up unlikely but possible if used in a very heavy or occlusive formula on congestion-prone skin
- Eye irritation possible stinging if loose powder or cream accidentally enters the eye
If any irritation or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide is an inert powder that stays on the surface of the skin and is used at low concentrations. While stearic acid on its own has a mild tendency to clog pores, binding it to aluminum and benzoate lowers oiliness and keeps it from melting into follicles, so the overall risk of breakouts is very low.
Suitable for acne-prone skin in most cases.
Formulas that pair this salt with heavy oils or waxes can still feel rich, so users who break out easily may prefer lightweight products that list it far down the ingredient label.
Summary
Aluminum Dibenzoate/Stearate Hydroxide is a texture builder that thickens and stabilizes creams, lotions and makeup, letting them glide smoothly while keeping pigments and actives evenly suspended. It manages this by forming a fine network within the oil phase that boosts viscosity without adding grease.
The ingredient sits in the quiet workhorse category, appreciated by formulators but not a buzzword shoppers seek out. You will mostly find it in mid to high-end sunscreens, color cosmetics and rich moisturizers where a silky feel matters.
Current safety data show minimal skin absorption and a low risk of irritation, making it broadly safe for daily use. As with any new product a quick patch test is still wise to make sure your individual skin plays nicely with the full formula.