Ingredient review
Bis-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI Copolymer
INCI: BIS-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI COPOLYMER
A synthetic polymer that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put longer, but may feel heavy on some skin types.
In plain English
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps products like foundation and sunscreen resist water, sweat, and rubbing off. Think of it like a gentle, invisible glue that keeps your makeup or SPF in place. It is not absorbed into the skin and sits on the surface.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Bis-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI Copolymer is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Bis-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI Copolymer.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic copolymer created by reacting HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate), PPG-26 (a polypropylene glycol), and IPDI (isophorone diisocyanate). It is designed to form a durable, flexible film on the skin or hair.
How it works
When applied, the copolymer molecules link together as the solvent evaporates, creating a continuous film. This film physically blocks water and oil from breaking down the product, improving wear time and water resistance. It also helps suspend pigments evenly.
Pros
Boosts wear time
Helps makeup and sunscreen stay intact for hours, even in humid or sweaty conditions.
Water-resistant
Forms a barrier that resists water and sebum, making it ideal for waterproof products.
Cons and cautions
Can feel heavy
On dry or mature skin, the film may feel tight or mask-like, especially in high concentrations.
Requires double cleansing
Because it forms a durable film, it often needs an oil-based cleanser to remove fully, adding a step to your routine.
Best for
- People who need long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
- Those with normal to oily skin who want a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or dehydrated skin who prefer lightweight, breathable formulas
- Individuals sensitive to synthetic film-formers (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Rare reports of mild irritation or tightness, mostly in individuals with very dry or sensitive skin. No known toxicity or systemic absorption concerns.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and EU CosIng confirm low irritation and sensitization potential. Most data come from manufacturer studies and regulatory reviews, not independent clinical trials.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA (USA) and EU CosIng database. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascara, Sunscreens, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate. Some brands are moving toward biodegradable alternatives.
Good to know
- This ingredient is common in 'transfer-proof' and '24-hour wear' makeup formulas.
- It is not absorbed into the skin and stays on the surface, so it poses minimal risk of irritation for most people.
Common questions
What is Bis-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI Copolymer in beauty products?
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps products like foundation and sunscreen resist water, sweat, and rubbing off. Think of it like a gentle, invisible glue that keeps your makeup or SPF in place. It is not absorbed into the skin and sits on the surface.
What does Bis-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the copolymer molecules link together as the solvent evaporates, creating a continuous film. This film physically blocks water and oil from breaking down the product, improving wear time and water resistance. It also helps suspend pigments evenly.
Is Bis-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI Copolymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Rare reports of mild irritation or tightness, mostly in individuals with very dry or sensitive skin. No known toxicity or systemic absorption concerns.
Who should be careful with Bis-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI Copolymer?
Those with very dry or dehydrated skin who prefer lightweight, breathable formulas Individuals sensitive to synthetic film-formers (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.