What Is Isostearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Glycolate?
Isostearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Glycolate is a specialty ingredient derived from isostearic acid, a fatty acid that often comes from vegetable oils such as rapeseed or soybean. Chemically, it is the hydroxyacetate salt of a fatty amide linked to a dimethylamino propyl chain. This unique structure lets it interact well with both water and oil, a property that makes it useful in personal care formulas.
The ingredient was first explored in the late twentieth century when formulators searched for milder alternatives to traditional conditioning agents used in hair products. By reacting isostearic acid with dimethylaminopropylamine, chemists create an amide. Neutralizing that amide with glycolic acid produces the glycolate salt, which improves water solubility and overall performance.
Manufacturing typically involves a controlled amidation process followed by neutralization and purification, resulting in a creamy to paste-like material that is easy to incorporate into emulsions and surfactant systems.
You will most often spot Isostearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Glycolate in rinse-off or leave-in hair conditioners, shampoos, detangling sprays, anti-frizz serums and some styling creams. Occasionally it also appears in skin care emulsions where static control of hair touching the face is desired.
Isostearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Glycolate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetics this ingredient serves a single yet important role.
As an antistatic agent it reduces the buildup of static electricity on hair fibers. This helps keep strands smooth, manageable and less prone to flyaways after combing or brushing. By minimizing static cling it also enhances the overall sensory feel of hair care products and supports a polished, frizz-free finish.
Who Can Use Isostearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Glycolate
This antistatic agent is considered gentle enough for all hair and skin types, including dry, oily and sensitive scalps. Its fatty acid backbone gives it a soft, conditioning feel without leaving heavy residue so even fine or low-porosity hair usually tolerates it well. No specific skin type is flagged as unsuitable, though individuals with known sensitivities to amide or amine compounds should remain cautious.
The ingredient is typically sourced from plant-derived isostearic acid, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always scan the full product label though, as other ingredients in the same formula may be animal sourced.
Current safety data shows no reproductive toxicity, so products containing this ingredient are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear new personal care products with a healthcare professional first.
Isostearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Glycolate does not increase sensitivity to sunlight and has no known effect on pigment-altering medications or treatments.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use vary from person to person. The following list covers potential reactions, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.
- Mild scalp or skin irritation
- Redness or itching linked to allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to fatty amide or amine compounds
- Eye irritation if product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Build-up or limp feel in hair when used in very high concentrations or layered with other conditioning agents
If you notice burning, persistent redness or any uncomfortable reaction stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms do not improve.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Isostearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Glycolate is derived from a lightweight branched fatty acid that does not easily build up inside pores. It is usually used at low levels in rinse-off or light leave-in formulas, so the chance of it sitting on skin long enough to clog pores is minimal. For those prone to acne or breakouts this ingredient is generally considered acceptable.
Because it is most often confined to haircare products any incidental skin contact is short lived, which further lowers the comedogenic risk.
Summary
Isostearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Glycolate is an antistatic agent that tames flyaways by neutralizing electrical charges on hair strands. Its fatty amide structure lets it anchor to hair while the glycolate portion boosts water compatibility, creating smooth manageable results without a heavy feel.
While not a headline ingredient it has a steady presence in modern conditioners, shampoos and detangling sprays thanks to its mildness and plant-based origin. It has a solid safety record with low irritation and virtually no comedogenicity when used as intended. As with any new personal care product a quick patch test is a smart step to rule out individual sensitivities.