What Is Dithiomethylbenzamide?
Dithiomethylbenzamide, also written as 2,2′-Dithiobis[N-methylbenzamide], is a lab-created compound that contains sulfur and benzamide groups linked together. Chemists first explored it in the late 20th century while searching for gentle yet effective preservatives for personal care items. Its antimicrobial strength soon made it a candidate for cosmetics, where keeping creams and lotions free of unwanted microbes is essential for safety and shelf life.
The ingredient does not come from plants or animals; it is synthesized in controlled factory settings. Production usually starts with methylbenzamide, to which sulfur bridges are added through a carefully managed reaction that joins two molecules into a “di-thiobis” structure. The finished powder is then purified and tested before being blended into cosmetic bases.
You are most likely to find Dithiomethylbenzamide in water-based products that need protection from bacteria and mold. These include face masks, lightweight moisturizers, serums, cleansers and some specialty treatments designed to sit on the skin for longer periods. Brands favor it when they want a broad-spectrum preservative that remains stable over a wide pH range and does not add noticeable scent or color to the final formula.
Dithiomethylbenzamide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and beauty formulas Dithiomethylbenzamide serves a single but important role.
As an antimicrobial it helps stop the growth of bacteria, yeast and mold in the product itself. This keeps the formula safe to use, prevents spoilage, and lets manufacturers reduce the amount of harsher preservatives. A well-preserved product maintains its texture, scent and effectiveness for the entire shelf life, giving users consistent results every time they open the jar or bottle.
Who Can Use Dithiomethylbenzamide
Dithiomethylbenzamide is generally considered suitable for all skin types, including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin, because it is used at very low levels and stays stable without breaking down into irritating by-products. Those with highly reactive or allergy-prone skin should still check ingredient lists, as any preservative can pose a small risk of sensitivity if an individual has a specific allergy to sulfur-based compounds.
The ingredient is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived raw materials, so products preserved with Dithiomethylbenzamide are usually acceptable to vegans and vegetarians. Brands that carry vegan certification often highlight its lab-made origin as part of their cruelty-free positioning.
No research has flagged Dithiomethylbenzamide as harmful to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically in cosmetic amounts. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run new skincare products past a qualified healthcare professional just to be safe.
Dithiomethylbenzamide does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odorless and color-stable, which means it will not interfere with fragrance-free or color-sensitive formulas.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Dithiomethylbenzamide can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential issues yet they are considered uncommon. When the ingredient is used correctly by the manufacturer most people will not notice any negative effects.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or a transient stinging sensation
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to sulfur-containing preservatives
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare delayed sensitization after prolonged or repeated exposure
If you experience any of the above reactions discontinue use immediately and seek guidance from a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Dithiomethylbenzamide is used at very low concentrations and does not leave an oily or occlusive residue on skin, so it does not clog pores. Because its role is purely antimicrobial rather than emollient or thickening, it has no characteristics that would trap sebum or dead cells in follicles. As such it is suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
The ingredient is also water soluble and easily rinsed away, further reducing any risk of pore blockage.
Summary
Dithiomethylbenzamide is a lab made antimicrobial that keeps cosmetics free from bacteria, yeast and mold. It does this by disrupting microbial cell functions which prevents contaminants from multiplying in your cream, serum or cleanser and preserves the product’s texture, scent and performance throughout its shelf life.
The ingredient is still a niche choice compared with well known preservatives like phenoxyethanol so you will mainly find it in select formulations that focus on broad spectrum protection without added fragrance or color.
Current safety data shows it is well tolerated by most skin types with a very low risk of irritation when used in typical cosmetic amounts. Even so it is always smart to perform a quick patch test when trying any new product to make sure your skin agrees with the full formula.