What is Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate?
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate, also known as BEHMB, is a synthetic compound that is commonly used in the cosmetic industry. This ingredient is a derivative of malonic acid, a naturally occurring substance that is often found in fruits and vegetables. The chemical structure of BEHMB includes two ethylhexyl groups, which are known for their emollient properties, and a benzylmalonate group, which is responsible for its antioxidant activity.
The use of Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate in cosmetics can be traced back to the late 20th century when researchers began to explore the potential benefits of malonic acid derivatives for skin care. The production of BEHMB involves a series of chemical reactions, starting with the esterification of malonic acid with ethylhexanol, followed by the addition of hydroxydimethoxybenzene to create the final product.
Compared to other antioxidants used in cosmetics, such as vitamin C and E, Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate offers a unique advantage. Unlike these vitamins, which are water-soluble and can be easily washed off the skin, BEHMB is oil-soluble, which allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin and provide longer-lasting protection against oxidative damage.
Typically, Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate is used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, serums, and sunscreens. Its antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from environmental stressors, such as UV radiation and pollution, while its emollient properties help to soften and smooth the skin. Furthermore, its skin conditioning function helps to improve the skin’s texture and appearance, making it a versatile ingredient in many skin care formulations.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate:
Antioxidant Properties
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate is known for its antioxidant properties. In layman’s terms, this means it helps to protect your skin from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. These free radicals are often a result of environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. By neutralizing these free radicals, Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate helps to maintain the health and vitality of your skin, preventing premature aging and maintaining a youthful appearance.
Skin Conditioning
Another key benefit of Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate is its skin conditioning properties. This means it helps to soften and smooth the skin, enhancing its appearance and texture. It achieves this by promoting the retention of moisture within the skin, preventing dryness and flakiness. This makes it an excellent ingredient in products designed to hydrate and nourish the skin, such as moisturizers and serums.
Skin Protecting
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate also serves a protective function. It forms a barrier on the skin’s surface, shielding it from environmental stressors and potential irritants. This protective layer helps to maintain the skin’s overall health and integrity, preventing damage and promoting a clear, healthy complexion.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and should be considered with caution.
Safety Profile
Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before applying any new product widely to the skin.
Potential side effects of topical application of Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently a lack of data on the safety of topical use of Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Bis-Ethylhexyl Hydroxydimethoxy Benzylmalonate are not common, but they can occur. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before applying any new product widely to the skin.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, with sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and other various publicly available sources.
