What Is Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate?
Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate is an organic compound that belongs to the carbamate family, meaning it carries a small “carbamate” link between two carbon based rings, one cyclohexyl and one phenyl. It is typically created in the lab by reacting phenol with cyclohexyl isocyanate under controlled conditions, followed by careful purification to remove any leftover reactants. Because its building blocks are widely available from petroleum and plant derived feedstocks the ingredient can be produced at a steady cost and consistent quality.
The material first drew attention in the late 1970s when formulators searched for mild alternatives to heavier plant oils. Early tests showed that Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate delivered a smooth skin feel without leaving a greasy film. Over the following decades it found a niche in personal care, especially in leave-on products where a lightweight conditioning finish is valued. Today you will most often see it in facial moisturizers, anti-aging creams, overnight masks, primers, lightweight body lotions and hand treatments. It may also be included in certain hair styling creams to add softness, though its primary home remains skin care.
Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators turn to this ingredient for one core reason.
Skin conditioning: Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate coats the skin with an invisible soft layer that helps trap moisture, smooth rough texture and leave a velvety after-feel. It improves spreadability so creams glide on with less tugging, and it can enhance the overall sensory profile of a product, making it feel more elegant and quick to absorb.
Who Can Use Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate
This silky emollient suits most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and mildly oily skin, thanks to its lightweight feel and non greasy finish. Those with very oily or cystic acne-prone skin may prefer to patch test first because any film-forming ingredient could, in theory, trap excess sebum and contribute to congestion in a small subset of users. Sensitive or compromised skin generally tolerates it well, as the molecule has low inherent irritancy and contains no added fragrance.
Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate is produced entirely from synthetic or plant-derived feedstocks with no animal inputs, making it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians. It is also free from common animal-based processing aids such as tallow-derived emulsifiers.
No published data links this ingredient to developmental or hormonal concerns, so it is not flagged as off-limits for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review their full skincare routine to be safe.
The compound does not absorb UV light and is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it can be used both day and night without increasing sun sensitivity.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate differ from person to person. The effects listed below are uncommon and most users will experience none of them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used.
- Mild skin irritation – a temporary stinging or burning sensation, typically in individuals with very sensitive or compromised skin barriers
- Allergic contact dermatitis – rare red, itchy patches in people who develop a specific allergy to the molecule
- Transient redness – a short-lived flush that subsides after the product is removed
- Eye irritation – watering or discomfort if the product migrates into the eye area
- Clogged pores – occasional blackheads or whiteheads in those highly prone to congestion, especially when layered with heavy occlusives
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate creates a thin breathable layer that does not plug pores in most users. It is lightweight, has a low melting point and shows little tendency to solidify inside follicles, which keeps the clogging risk low. Real-world feedback from formulators and consumers points to few breakout reports, supporting the 1 out of 5 score.
The ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone skin, provided the overall formula is not overloaded with heavier waxes or oils.
Keep in mind that final comedogenicity depends on the complete product, so texture partners and total concentration still matter.
Summary
Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate is a synthetic skin conditioner that boosts softness, slip and a light finish by laying down a barely-there film that holds on to moisture and smooths texture. It is loved by formulators who want a velvety after-feel without greasy weight.
The ingredient sits in the supporting cast rather than the spotlight so you may not see marketing buzz around it, yet its steady cost and performance keep it popping up in moisturizers, primers and masks.
Safety data show a low risk of irritation, allergy or pore clogging, making it a calm choice for most skin types. Still, patch test any new product that contains Cyclohexyl Phenylcarbamate to be extra sure your skin stays happy.