Ingredient review
Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin Copolymer
INCI: DILAURYL MALEATE/C20 OLEFIN COPOLYMER
A synthetic polymer that creates a flexible, water-resistant film on skin, ideal for long-wear and waterproof formulas.
In plain English
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, invisible film on your skin. Think of it like a clear, breathable raincoat for your makeup or sunscreen. It helps products stay put longer, resist sweat and water, and feel less sticky. It's commonly used in foundations, sunscreens, and eye makeup to improve wear time and water resistance.
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
Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin 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 Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin 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 dilauryl maleate and C20 olefin monomers. It is a film-forming agent that creates a flexible, water-resistant layer on the skin.
How it works
When applied, the polymer molecules spread out and link together to form a continuous, flexible film. This film physically blocks water and sweat from reaching the underlying product, while also helping pigments and active ingredients stay in place. The film is breathable enough to allow normal skin function but durable enough to resist rubbing and moisture.
Pros
Excellent water resistance
Creates a durable film that helps products survive sweat, humidity, and swimming, making it ideal for active lifestyles or hot climates.
Flexible and comfortable
Unlike some older film-formers, this polymer stays flexible, so it doesn't crack or feel stiff on the skin, allowing natural movement.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a petroleum-derived polymer, it may not appeal to those seeking natural or 'clean' ingredient lists, though it is widely used and tested.
Potential tightness on dry skin
The film can feel slightly tightening or drying on very dry or compromised skin, especially if used in high concentrations.
Best for
- People who want long-wearing, waterproof makeup or sunscreen
- Those with oily or combination skin who need products to stay put
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin who prefer lightweight, non-film-forming textures
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin Copolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in peer-reviewed literature or regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Research on this specific copolymer is limited, but it is structurally similar to other well-studied film-forming polymers used in cosmetics. Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel for related polymers support its safe use. No human or animal studies indicate significant toxicity or irritation.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof sunscreens, Water-resistant eye makeup, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not considered a major environmental concern compared to microplastics.
Good to know
- This polymer is often used in combination with other film-formers to fine-tune water resistance and feel.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies, including the FDA and the European Commission.
Common questions
What is Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin Copolymer in beauty products?
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, invisible film on your skin. Think of it like a clear, breathable raincoat for your makeup or sunscreen. It helps products stay put longer, resist sweat and water, and feel less sticky. It's commonly used in foundations, sunscreens, and eye makeup to improve wear time and water resistance.
What does Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer molecules spread out and link together to form a continuous, flexible film. This film physically blocks water and sweat from reaching the underlying product, while also helping pigments and active ingredients stay in place. The film is breathable enough to allow normal skin function but durable enough to resist rubbing and moisture.
Is Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin Copolymer safe for most people?
Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin Copolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in peer-reviewed literature or regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Dilauryl Maleate/C20 Olefin Copolymer?
Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin who prefer lightweight, non-film-forming textures
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.