What Is Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide?
Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide is a lab made ingredient created by joining two molecules of hydroxystearic acid to a short chain called hexamethylene. Hydroxystearic acid itself comes from stearic acid, a fatty acid found in plants such as soybeans and canola. Chemists link the pieces together through a simple heating and condensation process that removes water and forms a stable amide bond. The result is a waxy, off white solid that melts at skin temperature and mixes smoothly into creams, lotions and hair products.
The cosmetic world started using this material in the early 2000s when formulators looked for plant based alternatives to petroleum waxes. Its soft feel, mildness and moisture holding power quickly made it a favorite in both skin and hair care labs.
You will most often spot Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide in moisturizers, leave on masks, anti aging serums, styling creams and conditioning shampoos. It can also appear in color cosmetics like lip balms or foundations where a silky glide is desired.
Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient pulls double duty in formulas helping both skin and hair feel softer and more hydrated.
- Hair Conditioning – coats the hair shaft, reduces roughness and flyaways and adds a light silky finish without heavy buildup
- Humectant – attracts and binds water to the skin surface keeping it plump and comfortable throughout the day
- Skin Conditioning – forms a breathable film on the skin that smooths texture and leaves a soft non greasy touch
Who Can Use Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide
Thanks to its gentle, plant derived nature this ingredient suits most skin types. Dry and mature skin benefit from its moisture binding film while normal and combination types enjoy the light, non greasy slip it gives. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well because it is free from common irritants and fragrances. Very oily or acne prone users can usually use it without a problem although extremely congested skin might prefer lighter humectants since the waxy finish could feel too occlusive in thick, rich formulas.
The raw material is sourced from plant fats such as soy or canola so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans provided the finished product’s entire supply chain avoids animal derived additives or testing.
No data link Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide to hormonal disruption or fetal concerns so it is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run new skincare products past a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
This ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be worn day or night without extra risk of sunburn. It is also odorless, color stable and plays nicely with most other cosmetic actives.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide differ from person to person. The issues below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels in well formulated products.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching in extremely sensitive individuals
- Contact dermatitis triggered by a true allergy to the fatty acid backbone, though this is rare
- Temporary clogged pores if a very rich product containing high levels is layered heavily on acne prone skin
- Eye irritation if the raw material is accidentally rubbed into the eyes before it is fully absorbed
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Although Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide is a waxy fatty compound, its bulky structure sits mostly on the surface and does not readily sink into pores, so it is considered very low on the clogging scale. Most users with acne-prone or breakout-prone skin tolerate it well, particularly when it is used at typical concentrations in lightweight formulas. A richer balm packed with the ingredient could feel too occlusive for exceptionally oily skin, yet this remains uncommon. Overall the risk of pore blockage is minimal.
Summary
Hexamethylene Bis-Hydroxystearamide conditions hair, pulls moisture to the skin, and leaves a smooth protective film that softens texture. It does this by coating strands and skin with a thin breathable layer that traps water while giving slip and glide. The ingredient enjoys steady but not superstar status in cosmetic labs because it offers a plant-based alternative to petroleum waxes without major drawbacks.
Current safety data shows low irritation potential and no known long-term hazards, making it a dependable choice for most people. As with any new product, give your skin a quick patch test first to be sure it agrees with you.