Dipentaerythrityl Tetrabehenate/Polyhydroxystearate

Dipentaerythrityl tetrabehenate/polyhydroxystearate is an ester made by combining the fatty acids behenic and polyhydroxystearic with a portion of a synthetic humectant ingredient known as pentaerythritol. This combination yields an ingredient that adds substantivity to skin care, helps bind moisture, and improves application.

Behenic acid is a component of skin’s sebum (oil) while polyhydroxystearic acid has texture-enhancing and ingredient-dispersing properties to contribute.

This odorless, tasteless ingredient is sometimes used as a replacement for animal-derived lanolin in lipsticks and lip glosses, where its typical usage level ranges from 5-10% depending on desired aesthetics. Lower amounts may also be used, again depending on aesthetics and performance standards around moisture.