Disteardimonium Hectorite
Modified clay thickener for mineral sunscreens and foundations. Evenly distributes zinc oxide and titanium dioxide pigments.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Inert thickener without biological activity. Improves texture and stability of emulsions with mineral filters.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily, Combination, Dry, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Disteardimonium Hectorite is a modified clay thickener. Produced from natural hectorite (magnesium-lithium silicate) with surface treatment by quaternary ammonium compounds. Forms a fine dispersion in oils and silicones. Mechanism. In a formula it works as a lipophilic thickener and suspension stabilizer. Evenly distributes insoluble pigments (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) in mineral sunscreens and foundations. Prevents pigment settling and provides stable product consistency. Where applied. Mineral sunscreens (SPF), foundations, tinted creams, BB and CC creams, concealers. In Spain – ISDIN Fotoprotector Mineral, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral, Bioderma Photoderm Mineral, Avène Solaire Minéral. Almost all mineral sunscreens contain disteardimonium hectorite or related modified clays. Evidence base. A functional component with many years of use in mineral sunscreens. Pigment stabilizer efficacy confirmed. No active skin pharmacology. Safety. CIR confirmed Disteardimonium Hectorite safe in cosmetic use. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating. In sensitive skin patients rare reactions to quaternary ammonium components are possible; in most formulas tolerance is excellent. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Systemic absorption through intact skin is low. Best suited to: any skin type. One of the key functional ingredients in mineral sunscreens.
Frequently asked questions
Is Disteardimonium Hectorite safe during pregnancy?
Disteardimonium Hectorite is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Disteardimonium Hectorite for?
Disteardimonium Hectorite suits: normal, oily, combination, dry, sensitive.
What is Disteardimonium Hectorite and what does it do in cosmetics?
Modified clay thickener for mineral sunscreens and foundations.
What's the INCI name for Disteardimonium Hectorite?
The INCI name is Disteardimonium Hectorite.
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