Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 23, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate?

Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate is a man-made ingredient created when Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate reacts with 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate. The result is a sturdy resin-like compound made of linked acrylic and urethane groups that harden when exposed to air or light. This gives it a strong, flexible film once it cures.

The ingredient grew out of advances in UV-curable coatings during the late 20th century. Chemists were looking for fast-drying yet durable finishes for paints and inks and soon noticed that similar resins could work well in nail polish. Cosmetic makers adopted the material because it offers salon-quality strength without long drying times.

To make it, the two starting chemicals are blended under controlled heat, then purified to remove leftover reactants. The finished material is a clear viscous liquid that can be mixed straight into cosmetic bases.

You will mainly see Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate in gel nail polishes, top coats, nail strengtheners and some long-wear mascara or eyeliner films where a tough but flexible layer is needed.

Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient adds two key benefits to beauty formulas:

  • Film forming: It dries into a thin uniform layer that locks color in place, boosts shine and protects the underlying surface from chips and smudges.
  • Nail conditioning: By forming a flexible shield it helps reduce breakage and peeling, leaving nails feeling stronger and smoother after polish removal.

Who Can Use Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate

Because this ingredient forms an inert film on top of skin or nails rather than being absorbed, it is generally considered suitable for all skin types including oily, dry and combination. Very sensitive or eczema-prone users could experience mild irritation if the surrounding formula contains strong solvents that help the resin cure, so they may want to check the full ingredient list.

Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived materials, making it appropriate for vegetarians and vegans as long as the finished product has not been tested on animals.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not expected to absorb significant amounts of this large molecule through skin or nails. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show any nail or makeup product to their healthcare provider before use just to be safe.

The ingredient does not make skin more prone to sunburn and has no known hormonal or systemic effects. It is also odorless once cured, so it does not interfere with fragrance-free routines.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and cured.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis producing redness or itching around the nail plate or skin
  • Mild skin irritation such as warmth or stinging during curing if the product contains aggressive solvents or photoinitiators
  • Eye irritation if uncured product is rubbed or drips into the eyes
  • Respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals who inhale dust or vapors from filing or curing gel nails in poorly ventilated areas
  • Nail brittleness or peeling after repeated use without breaks, linked to over-drying from acetone removal rather than the resin itself

If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5 (non-comedogenic)

Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate is a large, inert resin that sits on top of skin or nails without sinking into pores. It contains no heavy oils or fatty acids that could clog follicles, and it cures into a solid film that is not mobile on the skin’s surface. For these reasons it is considered non-comedogenic.

Because it does not block pores, this ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.

One extra point to note is that most gel nail or long-wear eye products using this resin are applied to nails or eyelids, not the acne-prone areas of the face, so the real-world risk of pore blockage is even lower.

Summary

Bis-(Ditrimethylolpropane Triacrylate) Hexanedicarbamate is prized for creating a fast-curing, durable film that locks color in place and reinforces nails. It works by reacting with light or air to form a flexible yet tough coating that resists chips, smudges and everyday wear.

While not a household name, it is increasingly found in gel polishes, top coats and some long-wear eye products where salon-level longevity is expected without long drying times. Formulators value its balance of strength and flexibility.

Safety data show low irritation potential when the product is properly cured, and the ingredient does not penetrate skin or affect hormones. Even so, everyone’s skin is different, so it is smart to patch test any new polish or makeup that contains this resin before full use.

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