German personal care ingredient maker OQ Chemicals has launched OxBalance Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate (NPG Diheptanoate), a biomass-balanced light emollient ester for cosmetics certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS scheme.
The ester, which follows the launch of a conventional version last year, is said to outperform cyclic silicones (D5), which are being phased out due to EU regulations.
OxBalance NPG Diheptanoate is particularly effective in sun care, colour cosmetics, skin care, hair care, and antiperspirant applications, adds OQ Chemicals.
It forms a non-occlusive, protective layer that retains skin moisture longer, preventing dryness.
In sunscreens, it ensures excellent solubility and spreadability of organic UV filters, preventing crystallization for smooth and even application.
In colour cosmetics, NPG Diheptanoate aids solubility and dispersion of actives and pigments.
“The cosmetics and personal care industry is increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly formulations. Our certified Oxbalance NPG Diheptanoate supports formulators in achieving high-quality, effective cosmetic formulations that align with sustainability goals,” said Claudia Fischer, director of global business development at OQ Chemicals.
“This versatile ester is compatible with a wide range of ingredients and a suitable alternative to Decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) silicone, now regulated for environmental and health reasons. Customers report NPG Diheptanoate is easy to formulate, integrating well into various formulations with desirable effects on appearance, skin feel, and hair care,” she added.
