Ingredient review

Epoxy-Amine Film Former

INCI: Bis(Glycidoxyphenyl)Propane/Bisaminomethylnorbornane Copolymer

A synthetic film former that helps makeup last longer and resist water, but may feel stiff or heavy on the skin.

beautyskincarefilm-former

In plain English

This is a man-made polymer that creates a flexible, waterproof film on the skin or nails. It is commonly used in long-wear lipsticks, mascaras, and eyeliners to help the product stay put for hours without smudging or fading. Because it forms a tight film, it can sometimes feel a bit stiff or heavy, especially on the lips.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.5Good
3.5/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Epoxy-Amine Film Former 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Epoxy-Amine Film Former.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A synthetic copolymer made by reacting an epoxy resin (bis(glycidoxyphenyl)propane) with a diamine (bisaminomethylnorbornane). It is designed to form a durable, flexible film on the skin or nails.

How it works

When applied, the copolymer dries to form a continuous, water-resistant film that adheres to the skin or nail surface. This film locks in pigments and other ingredients, preventing them from transferring or washing off easily.

Pros

Exceptional wear time

Helps lipsticks and eyeliners stay put for hours without fading or smudging, even through eating and drinking.

Water resistance

Forms a waterproof barrier that resists sweat, tears, and humidity, making it ideal for active lifestyles or rainy days.

Cons and cautions

Can feel stiff or heavy

The film can make lips or eyelids feel tight or dry, especially if applied in thick layers.

Requires special removal

Because it is waterproof, it often needs an oil-based or dual-phase makeup remover to take off completely.

Best for

  • People who want long-wear lip or eye makeup
  • Those who need waterproof formulas for humid or active conditions

Use caution if

  • People with very dry or sensitive lips
  • Those who prefer lightweight, breathable makeup

Usage tips

Apply in thin, even layers to avoid a heavy or cakey feel.
Remove with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to break down the film without harsh rubbing.
Avoid using on chapped or irritated lips, as the film can trap dryness.

Safety summary

Generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No known significant health concerns from topical use.

Research notes

Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this copolymer, but it is structurally similar to other epoxy-amine film formers used safely in cosmetics for decades. Safety assessments rely on analog data and ingredient-specific reviews by cosmetic safety panels.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
1–10% in rinse-off or leave-on formulas
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
Common uses
Long-wear lip products, Waterproof mascara, Eyeliner, Nail polish
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable and may persist in the environment. Some brands are moving toward bio-based or biodegradable alternatives.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often listed near the end of ingredient lists because it is used at low concentrations.
  • It is not water-soluble, so it will not rinse off with plain water.

Common questions

What is Epoxy-Amine Film Former in beauty products?

This is a man-made polymer that creates a flexible, waterproof film on the skin or nails. It is commonly used in long-wear lipsticks, mascaras, and eyeliners to help the product stay put for hours without smudging or fading. Because it forms a tight film, it can sometimes feel a bit stiff or heavy, especially on the lips.

What does Epoxy-Amine Film Former do in a beauty product?

When applied, the copolymer dries to form a continuous, water-resistant film that adheres to the skin or nail surface. This film locks in pigments and other ingredients, preventing them from transferring or washing off easily.

Is Epoxy-Amine Film Former safe for most people?

Generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No known significant health concerns from topical use.

Who should be careful with Epoxy-Amine Film Former?

People with very dry or sensitive lips Those who prefer lightweight, breathable makeup

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) – Safety of Epoxy ResinsOpenEuropean Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – Substance InformationOpenPubMed – Film Formers in CosmeticsOpen

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.