What Is Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine?
Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine, also listed on labels as Disodium S-Phytyl Carboxymethyloxyacetyl Cysteine, is a lab-made derivative of the amino acid cysteine linked to a phytil group, which comes from plant-based phytol, and paired with sodium salts for stability. The result is a water-soluble powder that blends smoothly into creams and serums.
The ingredient was developed in the early 2000s when formulators searched for milder alternatives to heavy occlusive agents that could still fortify the skin’s natural barrier. By attaching the phytil chain to cysteine and then introducing glycolic segments, chemists created a molecule that mimics part of the skin’s own protective lipids while remaining lightweight.
Manufacturing begins with phytol extracted from vegetable oils such as sunflower or rapeseed. The phytol undergoes a series of oxidation steps to form a reactive phytyl acid, which is then coupled with a diglycolic linker. Finally, the modified phytyl unit is bonded to cysteine and neutralized with sodium hydroxide, yielding the disodium salt that is easy to incorporate into water-based systems.
Because it stabilizes and conditions the skin surface without leaving a greasy feel, Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine shows up in hydrating sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, soothing after-sun gels and leave-on treatments aimed at reinforcing the skin barrier.
Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient contributes mainly to skin protection in cosmetic formulas. By forming a thin, breathable film it helps reduce moisture loss, shields the surface from daily environmental stress and supports a smoother feel. Regular use can leave the skin looking healthier and more resilient, making it a valuable addition to products that target dryness, irritation and the first signs of aging.
Who Can Use Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine
Thanks to its lightweight film-forming nature, this ingredient suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it is free of fragrance and common irritants, though anyone with a known allergy to cysteine derivatives should proceed carefully.
The molecule is produced entirely from plant-derived phytol and synthetic building blocks with no animal inputs, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
No data link Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine to hormonal disruption or other concerns in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should show any product containing it to their healthcare provider before adding it to a routine.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity so users can apply it morning or night without extra sun risk, though daily sunscreen is always wise. It layers well with most actives like vitamin C retinoids or niacinamide and does not shift a formula’s pH in a meaningful way.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine differ from person to person. The points below list potential issues that could occur, yet they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild redness or warmth at the application site
- Transient stinging on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis marked by itching and small bumps
- Interaction with heavily fragranced products that may boost irritation potential
If any of these effects appear and persist stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine is water soluble and forms a breathable micro-film rather than a heavy occlusive layer, so it is unlikely to clog pores. It lacks oily triglycerides or waxes often linked to breakouts which keeps its pore-blocking potential low.
This makes the ingredient generally suitable for people prone to acne or congestion.
Because formulas vary, the overall comedogenicity of a finished product will also depend on the other ingredients and their concentrations.
Summary
Disodium S-Phytyl Diglycoloylcysteine is a skin-protecting agent that helps lock in moisture, shield the surface from daily irritants and support a smooth resilient feel. It achieves this by mimicking parts of the skin’s own lipids while staying lightweight and water compatible.
The ingredient sits in the niche category rather than mainstream skincare staples so you may only spot it in select barrier-supporting serums, masks or soothing gels.
Overall safety data show a low risk of irritation or pore blockage making it a gentle choice for most skin types. As with any new product a quick patch test is wise to confirm personal tolerance.