What Is Dimer Dilinoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate?
Dimer Dilinoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate is a plant-derived conditioning agent made from dimerized linoleic acid, an oil that naturally occurs in seeds like soybean and sunflower. Chemists combine this fatty acid dimer with propylene glycol, then link it to a gentle ammonium group and finish the molecule with a phosphate group. The result is a quaternary compound that carries a light positive charge, helping it cling to the negatively charged surface of hair strands.
Quaternary conditioning ingredients have been used since the 1970s to replace heavier animal-based conditioners. This particular molecule gained popularity in the early 2000s when formulators looked for greener, more sustainable options that could smooth hair without weighing it down. Manufacturing starts with the controlled dimerization of linoleic acid, followed by amidation with 3-aminopropyl groups, quaternization to add the positive charge and finally phosphorylation to improve water dispersibility.
You will most often see Dimer Dilinoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate in rinse-off and leave-in hair conditioners, smoothing masks, anti-frizz creams, color-protect shampoos and detangling sprays. Its antistatic nature also makes it useful in styling products that promise sleeker, flyaway-free finishes.
Dimer Dilinoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient offers two main performance benefits when added to hair care formulas
- Antistatic: The molecule’s positive charge neutralizes the negative charges that build up on hair during washing or brushing. By reducing static it helps keep strands smooth and easy to manage, cutting down on flyaways and frizz.
- Hair conditioning: Its fatty acid backbone deposits a thin, weightless film along the cuticle, adding softness, slip and a healthier look. This film improves detangling, boosts shine and protects hair from mechanical damage during combing or heat styling.
Who Can Use Dimer Dilinoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate
This ingredient is considered gentle enough for all scalp and hair types, including dry, oily, color treated and sensitive. It deposits a very light film and rinses clean, so it generally will not weigh down fine hair or leave residue on an oily scalp.
Because it is sourced from plant oils and no animal-derived intermediates are required during manufacturing, Dimer Dilinoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. As always, final product certification depends on the brand’s overall formulation and supply chain policies.
The molecule is not known to penetrate deeply into skin or enter the bloodstream, so it is considered low risk for pregnant or breastfeeding users. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all personal care products with a qualified physician to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make hair or scalp more prone to sun damage. It is also free of common allergens like proteins, gluten and nuts, making it a versatile choice in hypoallergenic lines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Dimer Dilinoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate vary from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects but most users will not notice any negative effects when the ingredient is used at the levels normally found in hair care products.
- Mild scalp redness or itching in individuals with very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of quaternary ammonium sensitivity
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally drips into the eyes during application or rinsing
- Product buildup that can leave hair feeling limp when overly concentrated leave-in formulas are applied daily without proper cleansing
If irritation or any other adverse effect occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Although the molecule starts with a fatty acid backbone, the dimerization, quaternary ammonium group and phosphate cap make it water dispersible and unlikely to sit in pores the way pure oils can. It is mostly used in rinse-off or light leave-in hair products, so skin contact is brief and the final concentration on facial skin is very low.
Because of this low rating it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Only those with extreme sensitivity to any film-forming ingredient might notice clogged follicles along the hairline.
No published data show it raising sebum production or triggering comedones, and real-world complaints are rare. Still, if a leave-in product containing high levels of the ingredient is used daily and not shampooed out, buildup on forehead or temples could contribute to pomade acne in susceptible users.
Summary
Dimer Dilinoleamidopropyl Pg-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate is a plant sourced quaternary compound that acts as an antistatic agent and lightweight conditioner. Its mild positive charge calms static while the thin fatty film smooths the cuticle, boosts shine and makes detangling easier.
It is not as famous as silicone giants like dimethicone but it has built a solid fan base among brands looking for greener, silicone-free slip. You will mainly find it in mid to high end conditioners, masks and leave-ins that promise softness without heaviness.
Overall safety is high: it stays on the surface, has low irritation potential and scores a 1 on the comedogenic scale. As with any new cosmetic, do a quick patch test when trying a product that contains this ingredient to make sure your personal skin and scalp tolerate it well.