Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate

What is Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate?

Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate is a synthetic polyester created through esterification of dipentaerythritol, a branched polyol derived from pentaerythritol, with hexahydroxystearic acid obtained from hydrogenated castor oil. This results in a pale yellow, waxy solid with high molecular weight and low polarity. Primarily used in anhydrous formulations like lipsticks, deodorant sticks, and solid emulsions within color cosmetics and personal care products, it acts as a film-forming agent that deposits a flexible, non-tacky layer on the skin. Its branched structure provides emolliency by reducing transepidermal water loss, controls viscosity to improve product stability and spreadability, and supports emulsification by bridging oil and aqueous phases, ensuring uniform texture and application.

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:

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.

Emulsifying agent

Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Smoothing

Improves the perceived smoothness of skin or hair by reducing roughness and friction, often through emollients, silicones, or conditioning polymers.

Benefits

Provides a smooth, flexible film that enhances skin feel and softness.

Improves formula thickness for better stability and even application.

Supports emulsion integrity, aiding consistent product performance.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
People seeking emollient benefits in lip and stick products.	Those with rare allergies to castor oil derivatives.
Individuals desiring non-comedogenic texture enhancers.	People preferring fully natural or plant-based ingredients only.
Users of color cosmetics wanting improved payoff and wear.	Individuals sensitive to synthetic esters, though rare.

Safety Notes

Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews.
Low potential for comedogenicity or pore clogging.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate

What is Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate?

A synthetic waxy emollient from dipentaerythritol and hydrogenated castor oil, used in lipsticks and sticks for texture.

Is it safe for skin?

Rated low hazard with no significant safety concerns in cosmetics.

Does it cause breakouts?

Non-comedogenic with a rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores.