Ingredient review
C6-14 Perfluoroalkylethyl Acrylate/HEMA Copolymer
INCI: C6-14 PERFLUOROALKYLETHYL ACRYLATE/HEMA COPOLYMER
Creates a flexible, water-resistant film on skin or lashes, but its perfluoroalkyl chain raises environmental persistence concerns.
In plain English
This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or lashes. It helps makeup stay put longer and resist water, sweat, and smudging. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that locks your product in place. However, it belongs to a family of chemicals (perfluoroalkyl substances) that are very slow to break down in the environment, which is a concern for some consumers.
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
C6-14 Perfluoroalkylethyl Acrylate/HEMA 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 C6-14 Perfluoroalkylethyl Acrylate/HEMA 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 perfluoroalkylethyl acrylate and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). It is a film-forming agent designed to create a durable, water-resistant layer on the skin or hair.
How it works
When applied, the polymer chains spread out and then dry to form a continuous, flexible film. This film physically blocks water and oil from disturbing the underlying product, helping makeup resist transfer, smudging, and fading. The perfluoroalkyl segment adds water and oil repellency.
Pros
Excellent wear time
Creates a durable film that keeps makeup in place for hours, reducing the need for touch-ups.
Water and sweat resistant
Helps products withstand moisture, making it ideal for humid weather or active lifestyles.
Cons and cautions
Environmental persistence
The perfluoroalkyl part of the molecule is very slow to break down in nature, raising concerns about long-term environmental accumulation.
Not biodegradable
As a synthetic polymer, it does not readily decompose, which may be a drawback for eco-conscious users.
Best for
- People who want long-wear, transfer-resistant makeup
- Those who need water-resistant formulas for humid or active conditions
Use caution if
- Consumers seeking fully biodegradable or eco-friendly formulations
- Individuals with known sensitivity to acrylate polymers (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Skin irritation and allergy are rare. The main concern is environmental persistence rather than direct human toxicity.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies on this exact copolymer, but the broader class of perfluoroalkyl substances has been studied for environmental persistence. Cosmetic use is considered low risk for human health based on current data.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng). However, some perfluoroalkyl substances are under regulatory review due to environmental concerns.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascaras, Lip products, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Perfluoroalkyl substances are known to be persistent in the environment. While this specific polymer is large and may not be easily absorbed, its degradation products could contribute to PFAS pollution.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often part of a blend that includes other film-formers for optimized performance.
- The 'C6-14' refers to the length of the perfluoroalkyl chain, which influences repellency and persistence.
Common questions
What is C6-14 Perfluoroalkylethyl Acrylate/HEMA Copolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or lashes. It helps makeup stay put longer and resist water, sweat, and smudging. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that locks your product in place. However, it belongs to a family of chemicals (perfluoroalkyl substances) that are very slow to break down in the environment, which is a concern for some consumers.
What does C6-14 Perfluoroalkylethyl Acrylate/HEMA Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer chains spread out and then dry to form a continuous, flexible film. This film physically blocks water and oil from disturbing the underlying product, helping makeup resist transfer, smudging, and fading. The perfluoroalkyl segment adds water and oil repellency.
Is C6-14 Perfluoroalkylethyl Acrylate/HEMA Copolymer safe for most people?
Generally considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Skin irritation and allergy are rare. The main concern is environmental persistence rather than direct human toxicity.
Who should be careful with C6-14 Perfluoroalkylethyl Acrylate/HEMA Copolymer?
Consumers seeking fully biodegradable or eco-friendly formulations Individuals with known sensitivity to acrylate polymers (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.