Ingredient review
Dibutyl Maleate Copolymer
INCI: Dibutyl Maleate/Hexadecene/Tetradecene Copolymer
A synthetic film-former that boosts water resistance and wear time in makeup and sunscreens, with a low risk of irritation.
In plain English
This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that helps makeup stay put and sunscreens stay effective even when you sweat or get wet. It's commonly used in long-wear foundations, waterproof mascaras, and water-resistant sunscreens.
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
Dibutyl Maleate 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 Dibutyl Maleate 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 dibutyl maleate, hexadecene, and tetradecene. It is a film-forming agent that dries down to a flexible, water-resistant layer on the skin.
How it works
When applied, the copolymer molecules link together to form a continuous film. This film physically blocks water and oil from breaking down the product underneath, helping active ingredients (like sunscreen filters) stay in place longer.
Pros
Boosts water resistance
Helps sunscreens and makeup stay effective even when you sweat or swim, so you don't have to reapply as often.
Extends wear time
Creates a flexible film that keeps foundation and eye makeup from smudging or fading throughout the day.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is a man-made polymer, which may not align with preferences for natural or 'clean' ingredient lists.
Potential tackiness
In high concentrations, the film can feel slightly sticky or heavy on the skin, especially in humid weather.
Best for
- Anyone using water-resistant sunscreen
- People who want long-wear foundation or eye makeup
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients
- People with very sensitive skin who react to many film-formers (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dibutyl Maleate/Hexadecene/Tetradecene Copolymer is considered safe for topical use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Research notes
Evidence is based on its long history of safe use in cosmetics and regulatory approvals. Specific peer-reviewed studies on this exact copolymer are limited, but it is structurally similar to other well-studied film-forming polymers.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU (CosIng), and many other regions. No concentration restrictions are typically imposed.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Long-wear foundations, Water-resistant makeup, Eye liners, Mascaras
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate.
Good to know
- This ingredient is commonly found in combination with other film-formers for extra durability.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies.
Common questions
What is Dibutyl Maleate Copolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that helps makeup stay put and sunscreens stay effective even when you sweat or get wet. It's commonly used in long-wear foundations, waterproof mascaras, and water-resistant sunscreens.
What does Dibutyl Maleate Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the copolymer molecules link together to form a continuous film. This film physically blocks water and oil from breaking down the product underneath, helping active ingredients (like sunscreen filters) stay in place longer.
Is Dibutyl Maleate Copolymer safe for most people?
Dibutyl Maleate/Hexadecene/Tetradecene Copolymer is considered safe for topical use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with Dibutyl Maleate Copolymer?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients People with very sensitive skin who react to many 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.