Datem

What is Datem?

DATEM, or diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides, is a synthetic emulsifier produced by esterifying mono- and diglycerides with diacetyl tartaric acid. Derived from vegetable oils and tartaric acid, it appears as a creamy paste or powder. In cosmetics, it features prominently in emulsions like lotions, creams, and conditioners, as well as cleansing formulations. It functions by reducing surface tension at the oil-water interface, forming stable films that prevent phase separation and ensure smooth textures. This enables even distribution of active ingredients and enhances product spreadability. As a mild surfactant, it aids in gentle cleansing without stripping natural oils, while its emollient properties contribute to a silky feel on skin and hair. Commonly used at low levels, it supports formulation stability across rinse-off and leave-on products.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Provides emollient effects to soften and smooth skin and hair surfaces.

Acts as an emulsifier to create stable, creamy textures in lotions and conditioners.

Supports surfactant action for effective yet mild cleansing in washes and shampoos.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking smoother, more manageable hair from conditioning products.
Those with known allergies to glycerides or tartaric acid derivatives.
Users of emulsion-based moisturizers wanting improved texture and spread.
Users experiencing sensitivity to emulsifiers in rinse-off products.
People preferring stable, non-separating formulations in daily cleansers.
Individuals preferring fully natural or minimal-ingredient skincare routines.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by independent assessments, suitable for typical cosmetic use.
  • Generally non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores in formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Datem

What is DATEM used for in skincare?

It emulsifies oil and water in creams, lotions, and shampoos for stable, smooth products.

Is DATEM safe for sensitive skin?

It carries a low hazard rating and shows minimal irritation in standard uses.

Does DATEM clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of zero, making it suitable for most skin types.