Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate?

Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate is a plant-derived lipid blend created by joining a dimer form of linoleic acid with a mix of fatty alcohols and plant sterols. These building blocks come from natural oils such as soybean or rapeseed, which are rich in linoleic acid, along with fatty alcohols sourced from coconut or rapeseed and sterols taken from soy or other plants. Chemists combine them through a controlled esterification process that links the molecules together, producing a smooth wax-like material that melts at skin temperature and spreads easily. The ingredient entered cosmetic labs in the late 1990s when formulators searched for more natural replacements for mineral oil and synthetic thickeners. Because it mimics skin lipids yet stays stable, it quickly found a home in creams and hair products.

Today you will spot this ester in rich face moisturizers, barrier-repair balms, nourishing hair masks, anti-aging serums, lip treatments and even creamy foundations. Its versatile texture lets brands replace heavier silicones or petrolatum while still giving a plush feel.

Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multi-tasking lipid blend supports both skin and hair while helping the overall texture of a formula.

  • Hair conditioning – coats strands with a light, non-greasy layer that smooths rough cuticles, reduces frizz and adds soft shine
  • Skin conditioning – reinforces the skin barrier, trapping water to keep skin supple and comfortable without a heavy or oily finish
  • Viscosity controlling – thickens creams and lotions so they feel richer and more stable in the jar, preventing separation and improving spreadability

Who Can Use Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate

This lipid blend suits most skin types. Dry and mature skin benefit the most thanks to its barrier-supporting nature, while normal and combination skin enjoy its light silky feel. Oily or very acne-prone skin can generally use it without issues because the ingredient is low on the comedogenic scale, yet those who react easily to richer textures might prefer to patch-test new products first.

Because all components are sourced from plants it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived substances or by-products are involved in either the raw materials or the manufacturing process.

Current safety data show no concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at cosmetic levels. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run all skincare products past a qualified health professional to be sure.

The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common actives such as retinoids or vitamin C. It is also mild enough for use around the eyes and on the scalp.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that have been reported or are theoretically possible yet remain uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated in cosmetics.

  • Mild irritation or redness in extremely sensitive individuals
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in people allergic to soy or other source plants
  • Temporary clogged pores or small comedones in those highly prone to congestion
  • Scalp buildup if used in heavy hair masks without thorough rinsing

If any adverse reaction occurs discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5

This ingredient is a bulky ester blend whose large, branched molecules sit on the surface rather than seeping deeply into pores, so it rarely traps debris the way heavier oils can. Tests on finished formulas containing it show minimal pore clogging even on oily skin panels which is why formulators treat it as practically non-comedogenic while still enjoying its rich feel.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, though very reactive individuals may still prefer lighter textures.

Worth noting: comedogenicity always depends on the entire formula and how often it is used. Pairing this ester with heavy butters or insufficient cleansing could raise the risk of congestion.

Summary

Phytosteryl/Isostearyl/Cetyl/Stearyl/Behenyl Dimer Dilinoleate conditions hair, conditions skin and controls viscosity. Its plant-based sterols and fatty alcohols form a flexible film that smooths cuticles and fortifies the skin barrier while the waxy backbone thickens creams so they feel plush yet spread easily.

Although not as famous as shea butter or squalane it is gaining traction in modern moisturizers, barrier balms and clean beauty foundations because it delivers a luxurious slip without relying on silicones or mineral oil.

Current studies and real-world use show it to be low-risk for irritation and low on the comedogenic scale. Still, every skin is different so patch testing new products is always a smart idea.

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