Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate: properties, uses, INCI functions, safety

Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate is a multifunctional ingredient widely used in various cosmetic and personal care products for its skin conditioning and viscosity controlling properties. It is the hexaester of 6-hydroxystearic acid, stearic acid derived from rosin, and a dimer of pentaerythritol.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate is a hexaester formed by the combination of 6-hydroxystearic acid, stearic acid, and  Rosin, pentaerythritol ester with a pentaerythritol dimer. This unique combination provides a stable chemical structure that contributes to its emollient and thickening properties.

Physical Properties

Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate typically appears as a white to pale yellow waxy solid. It is soluble in oils and dispersible in water, making it suitable for various cosmetic formulations. It provides a smooth, creamy texture to products and helps stabilize emulsions.

Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process

• Preparation of reagents. The main raw materials include 6-hydroxystearic acid, stearic acid, rosin, and a dimer of pentaerythritol.
• Initial esterification. The 6-hydroxystearic acid and stearic acid are mixed in a reactor. An acidic catalyst, such as sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) or p-toluenesulfonic acid, is added to facilitate the esterification reaction.
• Heating. The mixture is heated to a controlled temperature (approximately 180-220°C) under continuous stirring to allow the formation of intermediate esters. Water is produced as a by-product during the reaction.
• Addition of rosin. Rosin is added to the reaction mixture, and the reaction is maintained at a controlled temperature to allow the formation of rosinate esters.
• Addition of pentaerythritol dimer. Once the initial esterification reactions are complete, the pentaerythritol dimer is added to the reaction mixture.
• Final esterification reaction. The mixture is maintained at a controlled temperature (approximately 180-220°C) under continuous stirring to allow the formation of Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate. Additional water is produced as a by-product during this reaction.
• Removal of water. The water produced during the reaction is removed through azeotropic distillation or by using a drying agent.
• Cooling. The reaction mixture is cooled to room temperature.
• Purification. The reaction mixture is purified using extraction and washing techniques with solvents such as ethanol or acetone to remove any impurities and by-products.
• Drying. The purified organic phase is dried using a drying agent such as anhydrous sodium sulfate to remove residual moisture.
• Filtration. The dried solution is filtered to remove any solid impurities.
• Distillation. The final product, Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate, is further purified by vacuum distillation to obtain a pure product.
• Quality control. The product undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure it meets standards for purity and safety. These tests include chemical analysis and spectroscopy.

What it is used for and where

Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate is highly valued for its multifunctional properties. By providing both skin conditioning and viscosity controlling benefits, it enhances the performance of a wide range of skincare and personal care products.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions

Skin Conditioning: This ingredient is widely used in skincare products for its excellent skin conditioning properties. It helps to soften and smooth the skin, enhancing its overall feel and appearance. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and keeping the skin hydrated.

Viscosity Controlling: Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate acts as a viscosity controlling agent in cosmetic formulations. It helps to thicken and stabilize products, ensuring a consistent texture and application. It is commonly used in creams, lotions, and other emulsion-based products to achieve the desired consistency.

Safety

Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. It is non-irritating and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. As it is derived from natural sources and is biodegradable, it poses minimal risk to the environment when disposed of properly. However, it is important to use it within the recommended guidelines to ensure product safety and efficacy.

References__________________________________________________________________________

Min-Jung Kim and Jeong-hee Kim - Stability Determination of Natural Color Foundation containing Kaolin