OQ Chemicals has launched OxBalance Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate (NPG Diheptanoate), a “biomass-balanced light emollient ester for cosmetics” designed to outperform cyclic silicones, specifically D5. OQ Chemicals introduces a new emollient ester to replace D5 in makeup, skincare, and sun care products.
Claudia Fischer, the director of Global Business Development at OQ Chemicals, shared with Personal Care Insights that this emollient is part of the company’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by mid-century. The trademarked OxBalance line incorporates renewable carbon through a biomass balance approach, resulting in a lower carbon footprint than its fossil-based counterparts.
This new emollient is also certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) Plus scheme. Fischer noted, “ISCC’s objectives include traceable and sustainable feedstocks, protecting biodiversity and forests, and promoting good agricultural practices, all while providing practical and cost-efficient solutions. We recognize that these principles align with the goals of many cosmetic companies today.”
The company is confident that the performance of its emollient exceeds that of D5 in applications for sun care, deodorants, and color cosmetics. OQ Chemicals introduces a new emollient ester to replace D5 in makeup, skincare, and sun care products.
“Results are based on customer feedback, internal testing, and third-party panel evaluations. The light emollient ester is readily biodegradable and non-toxic, in contrast to D5, which the European Chemicals Agency classifies as very persistent and bioaccumulative.”
In May, the Official Journal of the European Union prohibited the use of cosmetic silicones D4, D5, and D6 in both wash-off and leave-on products. Since 2020, the use of D5 in rinse-off cosmetics has been limited to a maximum concentration of 0.1%. Starting June 6, 2027, D5 and D6 in concentrations above 0.1% will be banned in all cosmetic products, including leave-on formulations.
OQ Chemicals emphasizes that OxBalance NPG Diheptanoate creates a “non-occlusive protective layer” that retains moisture in the skin, helping to prevent dryness. OQ Chemicals introduces a new emollient ester to replace D5 in makeup, skincare, and sun care products.
In sunscreen formulations, this emollient enhances the solubility and spreadability of organic UV filters while preventing crystallization, ensuring a smooth application. Furthermore, NPG Diheptanoate aids in dissolving pigments and active ingredients in color cosmetics, improving texture and delivering a smooth, light feel that enhances the application experience for products like lipsticks, foundation, and eyeshadows.
Fischer also pointed out the stable supply of this ingredient, noting that OQ Chemicals is “back-integrated into the key raw materials of the light emollient ester, securing the necessary bio feedstocks with suppliers.”
