What Is Diethylhexyl Succinate?
Diethylhexyl succinate, also called bis(2-ethylhexyl) succinate, is a synthetic ester made by reacting succinic acid with 2-ethylhexanol then purifying the result until it is a clear, lightweight liquid. Both starting materials are made from petrochemical or plant-derived feedstocks, giving manufacturers flexibility in sourcing. First used decades ago as a plasticizer in industrial coatings, it caught the eye of cosmetic chemists who appreciated its smooth glide and skin-friendly feel. Today the ingredient is produced in large stainless-steel reactors where heat and a small amount of catalyst drive the esterification. Once the reaction is complete the mixture is filtered, washed and vacuum-distilled to remove any acids or alcohols that might irritate skin.
Because it is gentle, non-greasy and highly compatible with many actives, diethylhexyl succinate shows up in a wide range of formulas. You will find it in moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sheet masks, sunscreens, liquid foundations, lip products, hair conditioners and wipe-off cleansers. Its ability to improve texture and form a soft, breathable film makes it a go-to choice whenever a silky finish is desired.
Diethylhexyl Succinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for diethylhexyl succinate because it can play several helpful roles in a single product.
- Film forming – leaves a thin, flexible layer on skin or hair that helps lock in moisture and protect against environmental stress
- Plasticiser – softens polymer networks so creams feel less stiff, spreads more easily and stays comfortable after drying
- Skin conditioning – enhances softness and suppleness giving skin a smooth, healthy look
- Emollient – fills in microscopic gaps between skin cells, reducing water loss and boosting immediate hydration
- Solvent – dissolves oil-soluble vitamins, UV filters and fragrance ingredients so the final product is stable and uniform
Who Can Use Diethylhexyl Succinate
This silky ester works well for nearly every skin type. Its light texture does not leave a greasy film so oily, combination and normal skin can enjoy the soft slip without feeling weighed down. Dry or mature skin benefits from its emollient properties that help seal in water, while sensitive skin generally tolerates it because the molecule is non reactive and free of common allergens. People dealing with severe acne or those who are extremely prone to clogged pores may wish to introduce it slowly and monitor results, as rich esters can sometimes sit heavily on very congested skin.
Diethylhexyl succinate is made from plant or petrochemical feedstocks with no animal-derived components, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal testing is required for its production or quality assurance under most modern regulatory frameworks, so it also fits into cruelty-free philosophies when sourced from responsible suppliers.
Current safety data show no specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The ingredient is non-hormonal and has very low systemic absorption when applied topically. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any new skincare routine past a qualified healthcare professional just to be safe.
The molecule itself is not photosensitising, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Of course daily sunscreen is still a must because UV damage comes from the sun, not from your moisturizer.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical diethylhexyl succinate can differ from one person to the next. The points below cover potential side effects but most users will never notice any of them when the ingredient is used at conventional cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or a slight burning sensation
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to esters
- Clogged pores or minor breakout flare-ups on very oily or acne-prone skin
- Stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Enhanced penetration of other actives in the formula which could increase their irritation potential
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Diethylhexyl succinate is a lightweight ester that spreads thinly and evaporates slowly leaving only a breathable film rather than a heavy residue. Its molecular size is large enough to sit on the surface without easily slipping into pores which keeps the clogging risk low. Most finished formulas include it at modest levels further reducing any chance of pore blockages. Because of this the ingredient is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts though extremely oily or congested skin may still prefer very minimal use.
Worth noting: if a product pairs diethylhexyl succinate with richer oils or heavy waxes overall comedogenicity will be influenced by the full blend not just this single ester.
Summary
Diethylhexyl succinate acts as a film former, plasticiser, skin conditioner, emollient and solvent. Its silky texture lets it glide over skin forming a thin protective layer that helps lock in moisture while softening rough patches. In creams and makeup it relaxes stiff polymer structures so textures feel smoother and more flexible. As a mild solvent it keeps oil-based actives evenly dispersed improving product stability.
The ester is a quiet workhorse rather than a headline ingredient so you may not see marketing buzz around it, yet formulators rely on it in everything from sunscreens to foundations because it delivers a luxe feel at an affordable cost.
Safety data rate it as low-irritation with minimal absorption and virtually no toxicity concerns. Still every skin is unique so when trying a new product that contains diethylhexyl succinate it is wise to do a quick patch test just to be sure your skin agrees with it.