Ingredient review
Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Copolymer
INCI: DICAPROLACTONE ETHOXYACRYLATE/1,4-BUTANEDIOL/IPDI COPOLYMER
A synthetic film-former that helps makeup last longer and resist water, but may feel tight or heavy on very sensitive skin.
In plain English
This is a man-made polymer that dries down to a flexible, invisible film on your skin. It’s what makes a foundation stay put through sweat or rain, and why a liquid lipstick doesn’t budge after lunch. Think of it like a clear, breathable plastic wrap that holds pigments in place.
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
Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate 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 Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate 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 caprolactone, ethoxyacrylate, butanediol, and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI). It belongs to the polyurethane family and is designed to form a durable, flexible film on skin or hair.
How it works
When the product dries, the copolymer molecules link together into a continuous film. This film physically locks in pigments and other ingredients, creating a water-resistant barrier that resists smudging, transfer, and fading.
Pros
Exceptional staying power
Creates a durable film that keeps makeup intact for hours, even in humid or wet conditions.
Transfer-resistant finish
Reduces the chance of foundation or lipstick rubbing off onto clothes, masks, or phone screens.
Cons and cautions
Can feel tight or heavy
On dry or dehydrated skin, the film may create a stiff sensation that some find uncomfortable.
Requires double cleansing
Water-based cleansers alone often can’t break down the film; an oil-based cleanser or balm is usually needed.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-wear or waterproof makeup
- People with oily skin who need extra staying power
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or eczema-prone skin who find film-formers uncomfortable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. The IPDI component is fully reacted during manufacturing, so free isocyanate is not present. Patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Safety data is based on the polymer’s large molecular size, which prevents significant skin penetration. No published studies link this specific copolymer to irritation or sensitization in normal use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in leave-on formulas
- 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 eyeliners, Lip products, Setting sprays
- 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 often listed near the end of an INCI because it’s used at low concentrations.
- It’s common in ‘24-hour wear’ or ‘waterproof’ formulas.
Common questions
What is Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Copolymer in beauty products?
This is a man-made polymer that dries down to a flexible, invisible film on your skin. It’s what makes a foundation stay put through sweat or rain, and why a liquid lipstick doesn’t budge after lunch. Think of it like a clear, breathable plastic wrap that holds pigments in place.
What does Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When the product dries, the copolymer molecules link together into a continuous film. This film physically locks in pigments and other ingredients, creating a water-resistant barrier that resists smudging, transfer, and fading.
Is Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Copolymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. The IPDI component is fully reacted during manufacturing, so free isocyanate is not present. Patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Copolymer?
Those with very dry or eczema-prone skin who find film-formers uncomfortable
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.