What Is Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine?
Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine is a lab-made antioxidant designed to protect cosmetic formulas from damage caused by oxygen and light. Chemically it is a phenolic compound bonded to a triazine ring, with bulky tert-butyl and octylthio side groups that make it oil soluble and stable. The ingredient was first explored in the 1990s by chemists looking for longer-lasting stabilizers for sunscreens and skin care creams. Unlike traditional plant-based antioxidants such as vitamin E, this molecule was built from the ground up to resist high heat and ultraviolet exposure, which lets it keep working even in clear or lightly preserved products.
Manufacturing begins with a triazine core synthesized from cyanuric chloride. Through controlled reactions the octylthio chains are attached, followed by the coupling of the di-tert-butyl hydroxyphenylamine segment. Each step is purified and the final powder is milled to a fine particle size so it disperses smoothly in oils, silicones or emulsions.
You will most often see Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine in leave-on products where long shelf life is important, including face and body moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sunscreen lotions, lip balms, solid deodorants and certain rinse-off hair masks that come in wide-mouth jars prone to air exposure.
Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient appears on labels primarily as an antioxidant. By neutralizing free radicals inside the formula it helps prevent oils from going rancid and colors or fragrances from fading. A more stable product keeps its texture, scent and effectiveness over time, which means better performance for the user and a longer shelf life for the brand.
Who Can Use Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine
This antioxidant is considered skin friendly for most skin types including dry, normal and oily because it stays mainly within the formula rather than soaking deep into skin. Sensitive or compromised skin can usually tolerate it as well since it is non-acidic and has no exfoliating action, though any added fragrances or essential oils in the finished product could still be a trigger.
The raw material is fully synthetic with no animal-derived processing aids so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data show no hormonal activity or systemic absorption, so products containing this molecule are generally viewed as acceptable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before starting a new skincare product.
Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine is not known to cause photosensitivity and can be worn day or night. It is typically heat stable and plays well with other common skincare ingredients such as niacinamide, peptides and UV filters.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical ingredients differ from person to person. The following points list rare but possible reactions to Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine when used in correctly formulated cosmetic products. Most users will not notice any of these issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitized to phenolic antioxidants
- Follicular bumps if used in very high concentrations in oily leave-on formulas
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Interaction with high levels of strong acids or bases which could destabilize the ingredient and lower its effectiveness
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine is used at very low percentages, tends to stay within the formula rather than forming a heavy film on skin and has a large bulky structure that makes it less likely to clog pores. It contains oily side chains, yet the small amounts needed for antioxidant protection keep the overall load on skin light. Suitable for acne-prone users in most formulations, especially when paired with non-comedogenic base oils or gels. If a product also contains rich butters or waxes those may be the pore-clogging culprits rather than this antioxidant.
Summary
Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyphenylamino Bisoctylthiotriazine is a lab-crafted antioxidant that shields cosmetic formulas from air and light by mopping up free radicals before they can spoil oils colors and scents. Its oil-soluble design lets it nestle into the lipid portion of creams and lotions where oxidation usually starts, which helps products stay fresh for longer.
You will not find this ingredient on every store shelf; it is a niche choice favored by brands that want extra stability in clear serums sunscreens or luxury balms. Limited mainstream use means many consumers have never heard of it yet formulators appreciate its heat and UV resilience.
Current data show it to be low risk for irritation and it does not build up in the body. Overall it is considered safe for regular cosmetic use, but as with any new skincare product it is wise to perform a quick patch test to rule out personal sensitivities.