What Is C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether?
C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether is a specialty lipid created by reacting a dimer of linoleyl alcohol, which comes from linoleic acid found in plant oils, with C16-18 olefin oxide. The result is a large, branched molecule that feels smooth and cushiony on skin. Chemists first explored this type of chemistry in the 1990s when the industry looked for plant-based alternatives to mineral oil. Over time formulators noticed that the ingredient not only softened skin but also left a light, non-greasy finish, making it suitable for modern textures.
Production begins with linoleic acid-rich oils such as safflower or sunflower. The acid is converted to linoleyl alcohol then dimerized to form a twin-chain structure. This dimer is reacted with an olefin oxide derived from C16-18 fatty alcohols. Careful control of temperature and pressure yields the final ether, which is purified and stabilized for cosmetic use.
You will most often see C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether in moisturizers, rich face creams, overnight masks, anti-aging serums, body lotions and lip balms where a silky after-feel is desired. It can also appear in makeup primers and BB creams to improve spreadability and wear.
C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient mainly works by caring for the skin surface and improving product texture.
- Skin Conditioning: Forms a lightweight, breathable film that smooths rough patches, helping skin feel softer and more supple after application.
- Emollient: Fills in microscopic gaps between skin cells, reducing moisture loss and giving formulas a rich yet non-sticky glide that enhances user experience.
Who Can Use C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether
C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether is generally well tolerated by normal, dry and combination skin because it delivers softness without feeling heavy. Oily or very acne-prone skin can usually use it too since the molecule is lightweight, though exceptionally oil-sensitive users might prefer to test products with a lighter hand. Sensitive skin types often handle the ingredient without issues thanks to its gentle, non-reactive nature.
The material is sourced from plant oils so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived processing aids are required during manufacture.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Current cosmetic safety reviews classify the ingredient as non-hazardous at typical use levels. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product they plan to use to their healthcare provider for personal guidance.
C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether does not increase photosensitivity and can be worn during daytime alongside sunscreen. It is stable with common skincare actives like retinol and vitamin C so formulators often include it to improve the feel of more potent treatments.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether vary from person to person. The following list covers potential reactions that could occur even though most users experience none of them when the ingredient is used at approved levels.
- Mild skin redness or warmth immediately after application
- Itching or a light stinging sensation on very reactive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to fatty alcohol derivatives
- Clogged pores or small breakouts in users already prone to comedones
If any uncomfortable reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
The molecule is large and branched so it tends to sit on the skin surface rather than seep deep into pores, which lowers its clogging potential. It is also derived from linoleic acid, a fatty acid often recommended to help keep sebum fluid. For those reasons formulators and anecdotal user reports place it near the low end of the scale.
Most people who are prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this ingredient without seeing an uptick in clogged pores.
Keep in mind that comedogenicity can rise or fall depending on the overall formula, concentration and how many occlusive agents are used alongside it.
Summary
C16-18 Hydroxyalkyl Hydroxydimerdilinoleyl Ether is primarily a skin conditioning emollient that smooths rough patches, reinforces the skin’s lipid layer and lends creams a silky glide. It performs these jobs by filling microscopic gaps between skin cells with a lightweight lipid film that slows water loss yet feels non greasy.
The ingredient is a niche pick rather than a household name, showing up mainly in higher end moisturizers, barrier balms and some makeup bases where a cushiony texture is prized.
Safety data classifies it as low risk at typical cosmetic levels with only isolated reports of irritation or allergy. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is wise to patch test any new product featuring this lipid before full face or body use.