What Is Diheptylundecyl Adipate?
Diheptylundecyl Adipate is a synthetic liquid ester created by joining adipic acid, a six carbon dicarboxylic acid, with two molecules of heptylundecyl alcohol, a long chain branched fatty alcohol often sourced from plant oils such as coconut or castor. The result is a clear odorless fluid that spreads easily across the skin without feeling heavy or oily.
The ingredient first appeared in cosmetic labs in the late 1980s as formulators searched for lightweight alternatives to mineral oil and silicones. Its silky touch and ability to dissolve both oil soluble actives and pigments quickly earned it a spot in many modern skin care and makeup products.
Manufacturing relies on a straightforward esterification process. Adipic acid and heptylundecyl alcohol are combined in the presence of heat and an acid catalyst. Water produced during the reaction is removed until the desired purity is reached then the mixture is filtered to yield the final cosmetic grade ester.
Thanks to its non greasy feel and versatility you can now spot Diheptylundecyl Adipate in moisturizers, sunscreens, foundations, lipsticks, cleansing oils, hair serums, sheet masks and even fast absorbing body lotions.
Diheptylundecyl Adipate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ester brings several practical advantages to a formula
- Skin Conditioning – softens rough patches improves the skin’s surface texture and leaves a supple after feel
- Emollient – forms a light flexible layer that locks in moisture boosts spreadability and delivers a velvety finish without clogging pores
- Solvent – dissolves pigments UV filters and other oil soluble actives helping products stay uniform clear and stable
Who Can Use Diheptylundecyl Adipate
Thanks to its lightweight texture Diheptylundecyl Adipate suits most skin types including oily combination normal and even sensitive skin since it leaves a silky finish without a greasy residue. Dry skin can also benefit from its smoothing effect although those users may want to pair it with a heavier occlusive for extra moisture retention. The ester is considered non comedogenic for the great majority of people so it generally works for acne prone skin barring individual sensitivities.
The ingredient is produced by reacting plant derived fatty alcohol with a laboratory made acid so it contains no animal sourced components. That makes it acceptable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product formula and manufacturing process are also free of animal inputs.
No specific restrictions have been issued for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Current cosmetic safety assessments classify the ester as low risk however this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider before use just to be on the safe side.
Diheptylundecyl Adipate does not increase photosensitivity and can be worn day or night without raising the skin’s vulnerability to sun damage.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Diheptylundecyl Adipate differ between individuals and are uncommon when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic concentrations. The following points outline potential reactions but most users will not experience them.
- Mild fleeting redness or warmth on very sensitive skin
- Stinging when applied to freshly exfoliated or compromised skin
- Contact dermatitis in people allergic to fatty alcohol or adipic acid derivatives
- Rare pore congestion in individuals extremely prone to comedones
- Eye irritation if the raw ingredient or a high concentration product gets into the eyes
If a negative reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Laboratory and anecdotal evidence show that Diheptylundecyl Adipate spreads quickly and evaporates lightly without leaving heavy residues that can clog pores. Its branched structure keeps the molecules from compacting inside follicles which is why it scores near the bottom of the scale.
Most people prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this ester without seeing an uptick in blemishes.
Keep in mind that any ingredient can behave differently depending on the full formula and how often it is applied so overall product design and personal skin habits still matter.
Summary
Diheptylundecyl Adipate is valued for three main jobs: it softens and conditions the skin, works as a light emollient that boosts spreadability then forms a breathable barrier, and acts as a solvent that keeps pigments and oil soluble actives evenly dispersed. Its branched fatty structure lets it do all of this while feeling weightless.
Although it is not the most famous name on an ingredient list, formulators reach for it when they want a silky alternative to mineral oils or silicones in everything from sunscreens to lipsticks. Its low comedogenic rating and plant friendly sourcing also help it maintain steady popularity in modern clean beauty formulas.
Current safety assessments place the ester in the low risk category for skin irritation or sensitization at standard use levels. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to perform a quick patch test when trying a fresh product that features Diheptylundecyl Adipate just to be on the safe side.