What Is Dipropylheptyl Carbonate?
Dipropylheptyl Carbonate, sometimes listed on labels as Bis-Propylheptyl Carbonate, is a lightweight liquid ester created by reacting propylheptyl alcohol with carbonic acid. The result is a clear, odorless ingredient prized for its silky feel on the skin. It is considered a synthetic ingredient because the alcohol portion is produced in a laboratory setting using controlled chemical reactions rather than being pressed from a natural oil. This lab production allows manufacturers to achieve a highly pure, consistent material that performs the same way batch after batch.
The cosmetic industry began adopting Dipropylheptyl Carbonate in the early 2000s when formulators were seeking alternatives to heavier silicones and mineral oils. Its quick-absorbing texture and non-greasy finish made it an attractive option for modern skin care aimed at a smooth, weightless feel. Today it is made in large-scale reactors where the alcohol and carbonic acid components are combined under heat and pressure, followed by careful purification to remove any residual reagents.
You will most often see Dipropylheptyl Carbonate in facial moisturizers, lightweight lotions, sunscreens, foundations, makeup primers, hair serums and anti-aging creams. Because it spreads easily and leaves a soft touch without shine, it is popular in products marketed as fast-absorbing or suitable for oily and combination skin.
Dipropylheptyl Carbonate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin and hair care formulas Dipropylheptyl Carbonate serves more than one purpose, making it a versatile choice for product developers.
- Skin Conditioning – it helps keep the skin surface soft and supple by forming a lightweight film that minimizes water loss, supporting a smoother complexion and improving overall product sensory feel
- Emollient – it fills in micro-gaps on the skin or hair surface, leading to a silkier texture and easier spreadability which allows the product to glide evenly and absorb quickly without a greasy after-feel
Who Can Use Dipropylheptyl Carbonate
Dipropylheptyl Carbonate works well for almost every skin type because it feels weightless while still softening the surface. Oily and combination skin often benefit from its quick absorption that leaves no greasy film, while dry skin can appreciate the added slip that helps lock in moisture when paired with richer ingredients. Extremely sensitive skin tends to tolerate it since the molecule is inert and odorless, though anyone with a known allergy to synthetic esters should proceed with care.
The ingredient is made entirely in a laboratory from petrochemical feedstocks, so it contains no animal by-products and is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
No studies have flagged Dipropylheptyl Carbonate as a concern for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run all skincare choices past a qualified healthcare professional just to be safe.
Dipropylheptyl Carbonate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known photosensitizing effects. It is also fragrance free which further lowers the risk of scent-related irritation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Dipropylheptyl Carbonate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, though most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic levels.
- Mild irritation such as a transient stinging or warming sensation immediately after application
- Redness or itching in individuals with a specific sensitivity to esters or other formula components
- Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as persistent rash or swelling in rare cases
- Breakouts or clogged pores in highly acne-prone skin if layered with multiple occlusive ingredients
- Eye irritation like watering or burning if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Dipropylheptyl Carbonate is a lightweight ester that sinks in quickly and does not leave a heavy residue, so it rarely traps dead skin cells or sebum in the pores. Its molecular structure is smaller and more fluid than that of richer plant butters or waxes, which helps explain the low likelihood of clogging.
Because of this low score most people who are prone to acne can use products containing Dipropylheptyl Carbonate without issues, provided the rest of the formula is also non-comedogenic.
Keep in mind that a formula’s overall pore-clogging potential depends on every ingredient present. If Dipropylheptyl Carbonate is blended with high-comedogenic oils the finished product could still cause congestion.
Summary
Dipropylheptyl Carbonate acts mainly as an emollient and skin conditioning agent. It forms a thin breathable layer that fills microscopic gaps on the surface which smooths texture and slows water loss. Its silky slip lets creams and serums glide on evenly and absorb fast without a greasy afterfeel.
While not as famous as dimethicone or jojoba oil the ingredient is gaining traction in lightweight moisturizers, sunscreens and makeup primers aimed at a soft matte finish.
Current research and industry reviews place Dipropylheptyl Carbonate in the low-risk category for irritation or sensitization. As with any new cosmetic it is smart to patch test a small area before full use to be sure your skin agrees with the formula.