Ingredient review
Bis-Hydroxypropyltrisiloxyl IPDI/PEG-23 Copolymer
INCI: BIS-HYDROXYPROPYLTRISILOXYL IPDI/PEG-23 COPOLYMER
A synthetic film-former that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put without feeling heavy.
In plain English
This is a man-made polymer that combines silicone and urethane chemistry. When applied to skin, it dries down to form a flexible, invisible film that helps makeup resist smudging, water, and sweat. It also helps sunscreen ingredients spread evenly and stay effective longer. Think of it as a gentle, breathable glue for your makeup.
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-Hydroxypropyltrisiloxyl IPDI/PEG-23 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-Hydroxypropyltrisiloxyl IPDI/PEG-23 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 made from silicone (trisiloxane) and urethane (IPDI) units, modified with PEG-23 for water compatibility.
How it works
After the product is applied and the solvent (usually water or alcohol) evaporates, the polymer chains link together to form a continuous, flexible film on the skin. This film physically locks in pigments and sunscreen actives, improving wear time and water resistance.
Pros
Excellent film-forming
Creates a durable, flexible film that keeps makeup and sunscreen in place for hours, even in humidity or water.
Lightweight feel
Unlike older film-formers, this polymer dries to a soft, non-tacky finish that doesn't feel heavy or stiff on skin.
Cons and cautions
Potential tightness
On very dry or sensitive skin, the film can feel slightly tight or drying, especially if used in high concentrations.
Not eco-friendly
As a synthetic silicone-urethane polymer, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in the environment.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-wear foundation or waterproof mascara
- People who live in humid climates or sweat easily
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or compromised skin barriers (may feel drying)
- Anyone seeking fully biodegradable or natural cosmetics
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No known significant health concerns from topical use.
Research notes
Limited independent safety studies specific to this copolymer, but it is structurally similar to other widely used film-forming polymers that have a strong safety record. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has not published a specific monograph on this ingredient, but related silicone polymers are generally considered safe.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascara, Lip products, Sunscreen
- Environmental note
- As a silicone-based polymer, it is not readily biodegradable. Some manufacturers are working on more eco-friendly alternatives.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the end of ingredient lists because it's used at low concentrations.
- It is commonly found in 'transfer-proof' and '24-hour wear' makeup formulas.
Common questions
What is Bis-Hydroxypropyltrisiloxyl IPDI/PEG-23 Copolymer in beauty products?
This is a man-made polymer that combines silicone and urethane chemistry. When applied to skin, it dries down to form a flexible, invisible film that helps makeup resist smudging, water, and sweat. It also helps sunscreen ingredients spread evenly and stay effective longer. Think of it as a gentle, breathable glue for your makeup.
What does Bis-Hydroxypropyltrisiloxyl IPDI/PEG-23 Copolymer do in a beauty product?
After the product is applied and the solvent (usually water or alcohol) evaporates, the polymer chains link together to form a continuous, flexible film on the skin. This film physically locks in pigments and sunscreen actives, improving wear time and water resistance.
Is Bis-Hydroxypropyltrisiloxyl IPDI/PEG-23 Copolymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No known significant health concerns from topical use.
Who should be careful with Bis-Hydroxypropyltrisiloxyl IPDI/PEG-23 Copolymer?
Those with very dry or compromised skin barriers (may feel drying) Anyone seeking fully biodegradable or natural cosmetics
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.