What Is Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate?
Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate is a hybrid ingredient that links a lightweight silicone backbone to fatty acids obtained from Carpotroche brasiliensis seed oil, a tree better known in Brazil as sapucainha. By combining the slip of a trisiloxane with the conditioning lipids from the seed oil, chemists created a material that feels silky yet nurturing on skin.
Interest in silicone–natural oil conjugates grew in the early 2010s as brands looked for ways to deliver the sensory elegance of silicones while adding a touch of plant derived authenticity. This particular molecule emerged from that trend, and it has since found a place in modern skincare and makeup because it spreads quickly, leaves no heavy residue and supports long-lasting softness.
Production starts with hydroxycyclohexyl ethyltrisiloxane, a small volatile silicone that carries a reactive hydroxyl group. Through controlled esterification, that hydroxyl group is joined to the mixed fatty acids extracted and purified from sapucainha seed oil. The result is a glossy fluid that is easily incorporated into oil phases, emulsions or waterless balms.
You will typically meet Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate in lightweight moisturizers, anti aging serums, facial oils, sleeping masks, stick foundations, primers and hair smoothing creams where a non greasy yet cushiony finish is desired.
Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate serves a single but important role.
As an emollient it fills in microscopic gaps on the skin surface, leaving it noticeably softer and more flexible while reducing the look of dryness. Its silicone segment helps the product glide effortlessly, allowing a thin even layer that enhances spreadability and reduces tack, while the attached natural fatty acids reinforce the skin barrier and slow water loss for lasting comfort.
Who Can Use Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate
This emollient suits most skin types. Its light silicone portion prevents a greasy feel so oily and combination skin usually tolerate it, while the added plant lipids cushion dry or mature skin. Sensitive skin often does well too because the molecule is non reactive and fragrance free. Exceptionally blemish prone users who react to any film forming ingredient might choose to monitor how their skin responds.
The raw material is made from a lab crafted silicone and fatty acids taken from Carpotroche brasiliensis seeds, with no animal derived components, so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full product ingredient list to be sure no other animal sourced additives were blended in.
No studies flag the ingredient as harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and its large molecular size limits penetration through intact skin. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run planned skincare choices past a doctor to be safe.
Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate is not known to make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it does not require special daytime precautions beyond the standard use of sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical ingredients differ, so the following points describe potential but not expected effects. When the ingredient is used at the low levels typical in finished products most people experience only its smoothing benefits.
- Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of true silicone or seed oil allergy
- Closed comedones or breakouts in users who are extremely clog prone
- Temporary eye irritation if the product accidentally migrates into the eye area
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate earns a low score because its silicone base is too large and slippery to settle deep into pores while the attached sapucainha fatty acids are chemically bound, reducing their chance of separating out and oxidizing on the skin. Most users prone to clogged pores tolerate the ingredient well though extremely reactive or very oily skin may still prefer to watch for congestion after extended use.
The ingredient is often used at modest levels, which further limits any pore blocking risk. It is also non occlusive and evaporates or rubs off fairly easily during cleansing, leaving little residue behind.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in the majority of cases.
Summary
Hydroxycyclohexyl Ethyltrisiloxane Sapucainhate is an emollient that pairs a lightweight silicone chain with nourishing plant lipids to smooth rough patches, improve spreadability and lock in moisture without a heavy afterfeel. While it delivers a silky finish many brands still rely on simpler silicones, so you will see this specialty hybrid only in select mid to high tier moisturizers, serums and makeup primers.
Current safety data show it to be low risk for irritation or systemic absorption, and its comedogenic rating is low, making it a friendly option for most skin types. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a fresh product before full-face use just to confirm personal compatibility.