What Is Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate?
Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate is the sodium salt form of a compound made by joining glycerin molecules with phosphoric acid. In simple terms it is a water-friendly substance created from ingredients already familiar to skin care chemists: glycerin, a plant-derived moisturizer, and phosphate, a common mineral-based acid group. The result is a mild ingredient that mixes well with water and helps keep formulas stable.
The cosmetic use of this material began when formulators looked for alternatives to older, heavier emollients. By linking glycerin units with phosphate and neutralizing the mix with sodium they produced a lightweight conditioning agent that would not feel greasy. Its adoption grew in the early 2000s as brands searched for more plant-derived, skin-friendly additives.
Production starts with bio-based glycerin, usually sourced from vegetable oils. Chemists react the glycerin with phosphoric acid under controlled heat then add a measured amount of sodium hydroxide to balance the pH and form the disodium salt. The finished powder or liquid concentrate is filtered, dried and tested for purity before it is shipped to manufacturers.
You will most often see Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate in leave-on products such as lightweight creams, lotions, anti-aging serums, sheet masks and daily moisturizers. It also appears in rinse-off cleansers where a non-greasy skin finish is desired.
Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators choose this ingredient because it delivers a clear skin care benefit while keeping textures light and pleasant.
Its primary role is skin conditioning. Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate attracts and holds water in the upper layers of the skin helping it stay soft, smooth and comfortable. Unlike heavier oils it leaves a clean finish so products feel fresh and absorb quickly. This makes it ideal for moisturizers aimed at normal to combination skin and any product that promises weightless hydration.
Who Can Use Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate
Because it is lightweight and water loving, Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate suits nearly every skin type. Oily and combination complexions appreciate its non-greasy feel, while normal and slightly dry skin benefit from the added hydration. Even sensitive skin generally tolerates it since it is free of fragrance and common irritants, though anyone with a known phosphate allergy should proceed cautiously.
The ingredient is typically sourced from vegetable glycerin and mineral-based phosphate so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived components are involved in standard manufacturing.
No data indicate that topical use poses specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and individuals in these life stages should always confirm any skin care product with their health professional to be safe.
Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate is not known to increase photosensitivity. Normal daily sun protection practices remain adequate when using products containing it.
The ingredient pairs well with most other cosmetic actives and preservatives and does not affect makeup wear or disrupt sunscreen films.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or transient stinging on very sensitive or freshly exfoliated skin
- Contact irritation if applied to broken or severely compromised skin barriers
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with phosphate or glycerin sensitivities
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally migrates into the eyes
If any of these effects occur discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low)
Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate is highly water soluble, lightweight and lacks the oily or waxy structure that typically blocks pores. Its glycerin backbone is classified as non-comedogenic and the addition of phosphate groups makes it even less likely to form a film that traps sebum or dead skin cells. Most formulations include it at modest levels, further reducing any chance of clogging pores.
This low score means the ingredient is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with any raw material, the final product’s overall pore-clogging potential depends on the entire formula. If a moisturizer also contains heavy oils or butters those could raise the overall comedogenicity even if Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate itself is low risk.
Summary
Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate is primarily a skin-conditioning agent that attracts and binds water to keep skin soft smooth and comfortable. It achieves this thanks to its glycerin-based structure which pulls moisture into the upper layers of the skin while the phosphate portion helps it dissolve cleanly into water-based formulas so it feels weightless on application.
The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity: not every brand highlights it on the label but formulators looking for a plant-derived non-greasy humectant appreciate its performance especially in lightweight creams lotions and serums.
Current research and industry data classify Disodium Diglyceryl Phosphate as very safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or pore blockage. Even so it is wise to try any new product on a small patch of skin first to confirm personal compatibility before full-face application.