What it is
This ingredient is a large ester combining hydrogenated rosin (a refined pine-derived resin acid) with dimer dilinoleyl alcohol, a branched dimeric fatty alcohol. The resin portion contributes tack, gloss, and film-forming structure while the fatty portion adds emollient flexibility. In sunscreens and color cosmetics it helps deposit an even, cohesive film and can improve the longevity and adhesion of the applied layer.
Safety & warnings
Rosin and its derivatives, including abietic acid components, are recognized contact allergens (colophonium sensitivity) in some individuals, so hydrogenated rosin esters can be a consideration for those with known rosin allergy. Hydrogenation reduces but does not eliminate this potential. Otherwise it is used as a relatively heavy, occlusive film former and may feel rich on the skin.
Origin & sourcing
It is semi-synthetic: the rosin portion is derived from pine resin and then hydrogenated, and it is esterified with a dimer fatty alcohol obtained from dimerized linoleic-type fatty acids.
Questions everyone asks
What is this ingredient made from?
It combines hydrogenated rosin from pine resin with a dimer fatty alcohol, forming a resin ester used as a film former and emollient.
Can it cause an allergic reaction?
People with a known rosin (colophonium) allergy may react to rosin derivatives; hydrogenation lowers but does not remove this potential.