What Is Diethoxyethyl Succinate?
Diethoxyethyl Succinate is the cosmetic name for butanedioic acid bis(2-ethoxyethyl) ester. It belongs to the family of succinate esters, which are created when succinic acid reacts with alcohol derivatives. In this case the alcohol is 2-ethoxyethanol, producing a clear, lightweight liquid that blends easily with both oils and water-based ingredients. The compound is synthesized through esterification, where succinic acid and 2-ethoxyethanol are heated with an acid catalyst, then purified by distillation to remove excess reagents and by-products.
Its use in beauty products began when formulators sought alternatives to heavier petroleum solvents. Because it is less greasy and has a mild, non-pungent scent, Diethoxyethyl Succinate became a preferred choice for products aiming for a smooth, elegant skin feel. You will commonly find it in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, sunscreens and make-up removers where it helps dissolve active ingredients and spread them evenly across the skin.
Diethoxyethyl Succinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
As a single-function ingredient Diethoxyethyl Succinate acts mainly as a solvent. By dissolving other ingredients it ensures a uniform mixture, prevents crystal formation and helps active agents penetrate the skin surface more evenly. This leads to smoother application, improved texture and better overall performance of the product.
Who Can Use Diethoxyethyl Succinate
Diethoxyethyl Succinate is considered suitable for most skin types, including oily, dry, combination and normal skin, because it is lightweight and non-greasy. Sensitive skin users generally tolerate it well since it has a low scent and does not leave a heavy residue. There is no known reason to avoid it for acne-prone skin, though each person’s tolerance can differ.
The ingredient is synthetically produced from succinic acid and 2-ethoxyethanol, both of which are derived from non-animal sources. This makes it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians looking to steer clear of animal-derived additives.
Current safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically and at the concentrations typically found in cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review the products in their routine to be on the safe side.
Diethoxyethyl Succinate is not known to increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also does not interfere with makeup wear time or sunscreen efficacy, making it an easy addition to daytime or nighttime products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and skin reactions to topical Diethoxyethyl Succinate can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential but unlikely issues. When used at proper levels in well-formulated products most people will not experience these problems.
- Mild skin irritation
- Redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases of individual allergy
If you notice any unwanted reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Diethoxyethyl Succinate is a thin, quickly evaporating ester that does not leave a heavy film on the skin. Because it has a low molecular weight and is primarily used to keep formulas fluid, it is very unlikely to clog pores. Its light texture and low residue place it just above a pure non-comedogenic score, mainly as a precaution since every skin type is unique. In most cases the ingredient is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. No special acne-related concerns have been reported in the available cosmetic safety data.
Like many small esters, any pore-clogging risk rises only if the finished product also contains richer oils or waxes that linger on the skin. Always judge the full formula, not the single ingredient, when shopping for acne-friendly products.
Summary
Diethoxyethyl Succinate is a solvent that keeps cosmetic formulas smooth by dissolving actives, preventing crystals and improving spreadability. Its lightweight feel helps products glide evenly, which can boost the performance of moisturizers, serums, sunscreens and makeup removers.
The ingredient is still niche compared with well-known solvents like propylene glycol, but formulators value it for its low scent and clean skin finish. As more brands look for alternatives to heavier petro-based options its presence in skincare and makeup lines is gradually growing.
Current research rates Diethoxyethyl Succinate as low risk for irritation or pore blockage, making it broadly safe for everyday use. That said individual sensitivities can differ, so perform a small patch test whenever you introduce a new product containing this ester to ensure it agrees with your skin.