What it is
Dihydrocholeth-20 is made by adding about twenty units of ethylene oxide to dihydrocholesterol, a saturated sterol related to cholesterol. The combination of a lipid sterol portion with a water-loving ethoxylated portion makes it surface active, so it helps emulsify oil and water and conditions the skin with a sterol-like feel. It is used as a functional emulsifier and texture agent.
Safety & warnings
Ethoxylated sterols like dihydrocholeth-20 are generally well tolerated at cosmetic use levels. It is not a known fragrance allergen and is not a comedogenic oil.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic compound made by ethoxylating dihydrocholesterol, a hydrogenated sterol.
Questions everyone asks
What is dihydrocholeth-20 used for?
It is a sterol-based emulsifier and conditioning agent that helps blend oil and water and gives a smooth feel.
Is it related to cholesterol?
Yes. It is derived from dihydrocholesterol, a saturated sterol related to cholesterol, then ethoxylated to make it surface active.