What it is
Dipentaerythrityl Tri-Polyhydroxystearate is an ester formed from dipentaerythritol and polyhydroxystearic acid, giving a viscous, oil-soluble material. It is especially useful for wetting and dispersing powders such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and color pigments, which helps prevent clumping and improves spreadability. In mineral sunscreens it contributes a smooth feel and a more even cosmetic finish.
Safety & warnings
It is generally regarded as a mild, well-tolerated emollient with low irritation potential and is not typically associated with comedogenicity at normal use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; produced by esterifying dipentaerythritol with polyhydroxystearic (polymerized hydroxystearic) acid.
Questions everyone asks
Why is it common in mineral sunscreens?
It is good at wetting and dispersing powders like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which reduces clumping and helps the product spread evenly.
Is it an oil?
It is an oil-soluble ester emollient with a viscous texture, used both to condition skin and to disperse pigments.