What Is Dihydrocholeth-15?
Dihydrocholeth-15 is an ethoxylated form of cholesterol known in chemistry circles as cholestan-3-ol reacted with an average of 15 units of ethylene oxide. The base material, cholesterol, can be sourced from animal sterols or produced synthetically. By attaching ethylene oxide units, chemists turn the naturally oily molecule into one that mixes well with both oils and water. This tweak is what gives Dihydrocholeth-15 its cleaning and emulsifying skills.
The ingredient started showing up in beauty labs in the late twentieth century when formulators were searching for mild yet effective surfactants that felt comfortable on skin. Ethoxylated sterols like Dihydrocholeth-15 offered a solution because they mimic skin lipids yet bring the technical benefits of a lab-made surfactant.
Manufacturing begins with purified cholesterol. Under controlled heat and pressure the cholesterol reacts with ethylene oxide gas. The reaction is stopped once the average chain length hits 15 units then the mixture is neutralized and purified. The result is a creamy to waxy substance that dissolves in water-and-oil blends.
You are most likely to find Dihydrocholeth-15 in facial cleansers, cream or lotion moisturizers, makeup removers, sheet mask essences, hair conditioning creams and leave-on skin treatments where a light non-greasy feel is needed.
Dihydrocholeth-15’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose this ingredient for two main jobs that keep a product stable and pleasant to use.
- Cleansing: The molecule lowers the surface tension between skin and grime so water can lift away excess oil, sunscreen and makeup without harsh rubbing. This makes it ideal for gentle face washes and micellar waters.
- Emulsifying: Its water-loving and oil-loving parts link together oil and water phases, creating a smooth stable cream or lotion. This improves texture, prevents separation and helps active ingredients spread evenly across skin or hair.
Who Can Use Dihydrocholeth-15
Dihydrocholeth-15 is generally considered suitable for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily skin because it cleans without harshness and helps creams feel light. Sensitive skin users often tolerate it well thanks to its cholesterol-like structure, though very reactive skin should still introduce any new product slowly.
The ingredient can be a concern for strict vegans and some vegetarians. Traditional sourcing relies on animal-derived cholesterol so unless a brand clearly states that it uses a plant-synthetic or fermentation-based cholesterol alternative the ingredient will not meet vegan standards. Checking brand sourcing statements or certifications is the safest way to know.
No specific warnings exist for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Current safety data show low absorption through intact skin and no known developmental toxicity. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all skincare choices with a qualified healthcare provider for extra reassurance.
Dihydrocholeth-15 is not known to cause photosensitivity so daytime use does not require added sun precautions beyond a normal broad-spectrum sunscreen. Because it is mild and lipid-compatible it is also commonly used in products designed for the delicate eye area.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Dihydrocholeth-15 vary. The following points list potential side effects which remain uncommon when the ingredient is formulated correctly and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation
- Transient stinging or redness if applied to broken or compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitized to ethoxylated compounds or trace impurities
- Eye discomfort or watery eyes if a cleanser containing high levels of the ingredient gets into the eyes
- Dryness or tightness after over-cleansing when combined with other strong surfactants
- Theoretical risk of trace 1,4-dioxane or ethylene oxide residues if manufacturing purification is inadequate
If any irritation or unusual reaction occurs discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Dihydrocholeth-15 is highly water soluble and functions mainly as a mild surfactant and emulsifier, so it is not likely to linger in pores or create the heavy film that can trap oil and debris. Its cholesterol backbone is balanced by 15 ethylene oxide units that make the molecule rinse cleanly from skin. As a result it poses a very low risk of clogging pores. People who are prone to acne or breakouts can usually use it without added worry. One extra point to note is that products with lots of occlusive oils could still feel heavy even if this single ingredient is not clogging, so always look at the full formula.
Summary
Dihydrocholeth-15 works as a cleanser and an emulsifier. The cholesterol part bonds with oils and dirt while the ethoxylated side loves water, letting it lift grime off the skin and keep oil and water mixed in a smooth cream. This dual nature gives products a light feel and helps actives spread evenly.
It is not a headline making ingredient but chemists appreciate its mildness and flexibility so you will see it pop up in cleansers, micellar waters, lotions and some hair creams even if the average shopper is not aware of it by name.
Current safety data show it is low risk for irritation and has minimal absorption through intact skin. Manufacturing guidelines also limit possible residues of ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to patch test a product before full use, just in case your skin reacts in an unexpected way.