Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Hexanoic acid, 2-ethyl-, 2, 2-dimethyl-1, 3-propanediyl ester, COSMOL 525, NEOPENTYL GLYCOL DIOCTANOATE
Diester of neopentyl glycol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid | Emollient properties hydrate and soften skin
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate?
Neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate is the diester of neopentyl glycol, a solvent and texture enhancing agent, and 2-ethylhexanoic acid, a skin conditioning ingredient.
This skin care ingredient assists skin in the retention of moisture due to its emollient properties. Emollient ingredients form a protective layer over skin, trapping much-needed moisture within while also providing a soft skin feel.
It’s also utilized as a non-aqueous thickening agent in skin care products.
As a raw material, neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate appears as a light-yellow or clear colored liquid.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel ruled neopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate safe for use in cosmetics at current, wide-ranging levels (0.9-57%).
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
ULProspector, Webpage, Accessed January 2023 [https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/PersonalCare/Detail/127123/7400991/Soldoc-VF-8]
-
Cosmetic Ingredient Review, November 2017, ePublication [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/magdae092017final.pdf]
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Nelumbo Nucifera Seed Oil
A plant-derived oil that conditions skin and helps retain moisture
Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprate
A lightweight emollient that conditions skin without a heavy feel
Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate
Used as an emollient and thickener/texture enhancer in cosmetic formulas | Described as offering a light, silky feel
Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate
Derived from a mixture of neopentyl glycol and heptanoic acid | Functions as a skin-softening agent and formulary thickening agent
Nigella Sativa Seed Oil
A plant oil with traditional use and emerging research into skin conditioning and barrier support
Octadecane
A lightweight hydrocarbon that conditions skin and helps formulations spread evenly
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.