Decyloxazolidinone

Good

Antibacterial

No known benefits

Decyloxazolidinone at a glance

  • Functions as a preservative
  • Also a skin conditioning ingredient
  • Considered non-irritating
  • Known by the trade name DERMAC SR-38

Decyloxazolidinone description

Decyloxazolidinone belongs to a class of synthetic protein synthesis inhibitors known as oxazolidinones. Their primary function in cosmetics is to serve as preservatives thanks to their antimicrobial properties. In addition to this function, decyloxazolidinone is also an effective skin conditioning ingredient. That’s because it’s designed to mimic ceramides in skin’s surface layers, technically known as the stratum corneum. It is considered non-irritating in concentrations as high as 10%, far above its usual usage in cosmetics products. It is also used as a penetration enhancer. In its raw form, decyloxazolidinone is a white, crystalline, odorless solid. It is also commonly referred to by its trade name, DERMAC SR-38.

Decyloxazolidinone references

  • CoSmileEurope, Website, Accessed July 2025
  • Macedonian Pharmaceutical Bulletin, December 2022, pages 285-285
  • Dermatology Online Journal, January 2010, ePublication
  • Songkanakarin Journal of Science and Technology, May-June 2009, pages 299-321

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.