Dicetyl Phosphate
A co-emulsifier. It stabilizes the emulsion and helps spread the product evenly. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Dicetyl phosphate (INCI: Dicetyl Phosphate) is a phosphate-ester co-emulsifier derived from cetyl alcohol. It works alongside other emulsifiers to stabilize the emulsion, adjust consistency and help the product spread evenly on the skin. This is a functional ingredient, not a skincare active. Its role is structure and texture: it holds the formula together but does not act on wrinkles, dark spots or acne. On the label it should be read as a technical support. Applied topically it has no systemic significance, so it can be used in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good. Irritation and allergy potential are low and it suits sensitive skin. At co-emulsifier levels it behaves mildly and rarely causes discomfort.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dicetyl Phosphate safe during pregnancy?
Dicetyl Phosphate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Dicetyl Phosphate for?
Dicetyl Phosphate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Dicetyl Phosphate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A co-emulsifier.
What's the INCI name for Dicetyl Phosphate?
The INCI name is Dicetyl Phosphate.
See Dicetyl Phosphate in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol, Diethanolamine, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Diethyl Phthalate, Maltodextrin, Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate, Sodium Polyaspartate, Behentrimonium Methosulfate
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