Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone/Ipdi Copolymer Ethylcarbamate is an inorganic chemical compound, a Dimethicone by-product.
The name describes the structure of the molecule:
- Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer. The term Bis- indicates the presence of two Hydroxyethoxypropyl groups attached to the backbone of dimethicone. Dimethicone (see link at the bottom) is a type of silicone often used in cosmetics for its smoothing and conditioning properties and to improve water solubility and compatibility with other cosmetic ingredients.
- lpdi stands for Isophorone Diisocyanate, a reactive organic compound containing two isocyanate groups (-NCO). It is often used in the production of polyurethane resins. A reactive compound used to form cross-links in the copolymer, enhancing the strength and stability of the final product.
- Copolymer indicates that the polymer is composed of more than one type of monomer, in this case Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone and IPDI.
- Ethylcarbamate refers to a carbamate group (-NHCOO-) linked to an ethyl group (-CH2CH3). An organic compound used to further modify the properties of the copolymer, such as flexibility and moisture resistance.
Industrial Chemical Synthesis of the Copolymer
- Preparation. The synthesis begins with the reaction of bis-hydroxyethoxypropyl dimethicone with Ipdi to form a base structure of the copolymer.
- Cross-Linking Reaction. Ipdi is used to create cross-links within the copolymer, improving its physical and chemical properties.
- Modification with Ethylcarbamate. The copolymer is then modified with ethylcarbamate to further enhance its properties, such as flexibility and moisture resistance.
- Purification. After synthesis, the copolymer is purified to remove impurities and by-products.
- Quality Control and Packaging. The bis-hydroxyethoxypropyl dimethicone/Ipdi copolymer ethylcarbamate undergoes quality checks to ensure it meets the required standards. After quality control, it is packaged for use in cosmetic and personal care products, where it utilizes its properties as a conditioning and film-forming agent.
Form. Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone/Ipdi Copolymer Ethylcarbamate is typically a viscous liquid.
Color. This compound is usually colorless or very light in color.

What it is used for and where
Bis-Hydroxyethoxypropyl Dimethicone/Ipdi Copolymer Ethylcarbamate is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products. Due to its emollient and moisturizing properties, it is often found in products like creams, lotions, and hair products. It can also act as a conditioning agent, enhancing the feel and appearance of products on the skin and hair.
Cosmetics
Film-forming agent. It produces a continuous ultra-thin film with an optimal balance of cohesion, adhesion and stickiness on the skin or hair to counteract or limit damage from external phenomena such as chemicals, UV rays and pollution.
CAS: 628723-36-4
Safety
Dimethicone ((polydimethylsiloxane) is a chemical compound, a high molecular weight polymer derived from silicone, a chemically inert mixture of linear methylated siloxane polymers. The term 'dimeth' denotes two methyl groups bonded to the silicone molecule that provide the formation of dimethicone. It possesses a pronounced viscoelasticity characteristic and is hydrophobic, thus adding shine and slipperiness when applied to hair or skin. It forms a kind of barrier that prevents exogenous substances from entering the stratum corneum and at the same time prevents water loss. It is also UV-resistant, non-greasy and cost-effective. At low concentrations it is considered by the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to be a skin protector with a good degree of safety.
It is therefore considered safe when formulated to be non-irritating in cosmetic products as, given its high molecular weight, it is poorly absorbed by the skin or scalp.
See also:
Dimethicone