What Is Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleic Acid?
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleic Acid is a soft waxy material made by taking dilinoleic acid, which comes from plant oils rich in linoleic acid such as soybean or sunflower, linking two of those fatty acid molecules together, then adding hydrogen to make the final structure more stable. This extra hydrogen keeps the ingredient from going rancid and makes it work better in creams and lotions. Chemists began using it in cosmetics in the late 1990s when they saw that the hydrogenated form gave formulas a smooth feel without the greasiness of many other oils. Today it appears in a wide range of products including facial moisturizers, body lotions, sunscreen, foundations, hair styling creams, sheet masks, anti-aging serums and cleansing balms.
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleic Acid’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators like this ingredient because it can play several helpful roles at once.
- Absorbent – soaks up excess oil or sweat on the skin surface helping products stay fresh longer and giving oily skin a more matte look
- Binding – keeps powders and other loose particles stuck together which stops a formula from separating and improves the feel of pressed makeup
- Film Forming – leaves a light flexible layer on skin or hair that locks in moisture and helps makeup resist smudging or fading
- Skin Conditioning – adds a soft cushioned feel that smooths rough spots and boosts overall comfort without heavy shine
- Viscosity Controlling – thickens or stabilizes a mix so lotions are not too runny and balms are not too stiff making the texture easy to spread
Who Can Use Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleic Acid
This ingredient is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and even oily skin because its waxy structure absorbs excess surface oil without stripping moisture. Very acne prone users may still want to monitor how their skin reacts since any rich fatty acid derivative has a small chance of contributing to breakouts in especially sensitive cases.
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleic Acid is sourced from plant oils and involves no animal-derived substances or by-products, making it suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
No data indicate that the ingredient poses risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when applied topically in cosmetic concentrations. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of a product to their doctor before use to be safe.
The molecule does not increase skin sensitivity to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. It is also odorless and free from common allergens like nuts gluten and soy proteins which may matter to people with related sensitivities.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleic Acid vary between individuals. The points below outline potential reactions yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation temporary redness stinging or itching on very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis rare allergic reaction presenting as rash swelling or persistent itch
- Clogged pores in users who are extremely acne prone especially if layered with multiple heavy products
- Product pilling small flakes appearing on the skin when applied over certain silicones or under fast-drying makeup
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleic Acid earns a low score because its bulky hydrogenated structure tends to sit on the surface rather than seeping deeply into pores. It helps absorb excess oil instead of adding a greasy layer, and manufacturers usually use it at modest percentages. That combination keeps the risk of pore blockage minimal for most users.
Suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, though ultra sensitive or very congested skin types might still prefer lighter alternatives.
The ingredient’s comedogenicity can rise if it is blended with heavier butters or occlusives, so overall formula design matters more than the raw material alone.
Summary
Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleic Acid works as an absorbent, binder, film former, skin conditioner and viscosity controller. Its waxy yet lightweight texture mops up surface oil, holds powders together, leaves a flexible moisture-locking veil, smooths rough patches and keeps lotions at the right thickness.
While not a headline-grabbing superstar, it is a quiet favorite among formulators who want a plant derived multitasker that feels elegant and plays well with many actives.
Current safety data show very low irritation or allergy potential and its vegan origin is another plus. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains this ingredient before fully integrating it into a routine.