Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
A synthetic antioxidant that serves to protect the product formula, not skin. | Scavenges free radicals to keep a product’s more delicate ingredients from perishing when exposed to oxygen.
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate?
Pentaerythrityl tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate is a synthetic antioxidant that is used to protect a product’s formula, not skin. Its function is to scavenge free radicals to keep a product’s more delicate ingredients (such as fats, oils, and fragrances) from perishing when exposed to oxygen. In this regard, it helps keep the formula’s texture, odor, and color true to form.
It is often used in place of BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) due to its enhanced performance at higher temperatures, meaning it offers greater product stability. It is considered safe as used in cosmetics in amounts between 0.01-1.0%.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Cosmetic Ingredient Review, September 2014, pages 1-22 [https://online.personalcarecouncil.org/ctfa-static/online/lists/cir-pdfs/pr625.pdf]
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Cosmetics, May 2018, pages 1-12 [https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/5/2/29/htm]
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Food and Chemical Toxicology, October 1995, pages 799-806 [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/027869159500094X]
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