Dimer Dilinoleyl Diisostearate

What is Dimer Dilinoleyl Diisostearate?

Dimer Dilinoleyl Diisostearate is a synthetic polyester derived from dimerized linoleic acid, sourced from vegetable oils like safflower or sunflower, and esterified with isostearic acid, a branched-chain fatty acid from natural oils. This creates a viscous, non-polar liquid with polymer-like properties, commonly used in hair care products, lipsticks, and skin moisturizers. In formulations, it acts by forming thin, flexible films on surfaces, which reduces friction between hair shafts or skin cells, enhances slip for easier application, and stabilizes emulsions by adjusting flow properties. Its hydrophobic nature helps lock in moisture without greasiness, making it suitable for anhydrous sticks and oil-based serums. As a multifunctional additive, it supports product integrity in solid formats and improves sensory feel across rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics.

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:

Binder
Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.
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.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Antistatic agent
Reduces static electricity and flyaways by improving surface conductivity, enhancing hair manageability and smoothness in conditioners and styling products.
Binding
Provides cohesion by helping ingredients stick together, improving the strength and integrity of pressed powders, tablets, or solid bars.

Benefits

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

Enhances hair manageability by reducing static and friction.

Improves product texture and stability as a binder and viscosity adjuster.

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 with dry or rough skin seeking smoother texture.
Those with known allergies to fatty acid esters.
People with frizzy or unmanageable hair for better conditioning.
People sensitive to synthetic emollients in high concentrations.
Users of makeup sticks or hair products wanting improved wear and feel.
Individuals preferring fully natural or plant-derived ingredients only.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by environmental health assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dimer Dilinoleyl Diisostearate

What is Dimer Dilinoleyl Diisostearate made from?

It's a polyester from dimerized linoleic acid from vegetable oils and isostearic acid.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It has a low irritation profile based on safety reviews.

Does it help with hair frizz?

Yes, it reduces static and improves smoothness as an antistatic conditioner.