Ingredient review

Ethylenediamine/Dimer Tallate Copolymer

INCI: ETHYLENEDIAMINE/DIMER TALLATE COPOLYMER BIS-HYDROGENATED TALLOW AMIDE

A synthetic polymer that helps products stay put, but its tallow-derived origin may not suit everyone.

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In plain English

This ingredient is a man-made polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on skin or hair. It helps makeup last longer and resist water or sweat. The 'tallow' part comes from animal fat, which is chemically modified to be stable and non-greasy. It's mostly used in products like mascara and eyeliner to keep them from smudging.

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

Ethylenediamine/Dimer Tallate 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Ethylenediamine/Dimer Tallate Copolymer.
  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 from ethylenediamine and dimer acids derived from tallow (animal fat), further modified with hydrogenated tallow amide groups. It acts as a film former and thickener.

How it works

When applied, it dries into a continuous, flexible film that coats the surface of skin, lashes, or hair. This film helps lock in other ingredients, improves water resistance, and gives a smooth, even finish.

Pros

Long-lasting wear

Helps mascara and eyeliner resist smudging, flaking, and running, even in humid conditions.

Smooth application

Creates a uniform film that glides on evenly, reducing clumps in mascara or streaks in eyeliner.

Cons and cautions

Animal-derived source

Made from tallow (animal fat), which may be a concern for vegans or those seeking plant-based alternatives.

Potential stiffness

In high concentrations, the film can feel stiff or heavy on lashes or hair, reducing natural movement.

Best for

  • Anyone wanting long-wearing, water-resistant eye makeup
  • People who prefer products with strong film-forming properties

Use caution if

  • Vegans or those avoiding animal-derived ingredients

Usage tips

Use with oil-based cleansers or micellar water for thorough removal, as water alone may not dissolve the film.
Avoid layering too many film-forming products to prevent a heavy or stiff feel.

Safety summary

Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. The main concern is its animal origin, not toxicity.

Research notes

Limited peer-reviewed studies on this specific copolymer, but film-forming polymers in general are well-studied for safety and function. No significant safety alerts from regulatory bodies.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng) with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
Common uses
Mascara, Eyeliners, Lip products, Hair styling products
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it may not be biodegradable. Tallow sourcing also raises questions about animal farming practices.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often listed near the end of ingredient lists because it's used in small amounts.
  • The 'hydrogenated tallow amide' part means the animal fat has been chemically saturated to improve stability and shelf life.

Common questions

What is Ethylenediamine/Dimer Tallate Copolymer in beauty products?

This ingredient is a man-made polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on skin or hair. It helps makeup last longer and resist water or sweat. The 'tallow' part comes from animal fat, which is chemically modified to be stable and non-greasy. It's mostly used in products like mascara and eyeliner to keep them from smudging.

What does Ethylenediamine/Dimer Tallate Copolymer do in a beauty product?

When applied, it dries into a continuous, flexible film that coats the surface of skin, lashes, or hair. This film helps lock in other ingredients, improves water resistance, and gives a smooth, even finish.

Is Ethylenediamine/Dimer Tallate Copolymer safe for most people?

Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. The main concern is its animal origin, not toxicity.

Who should be careful with Ethylenediamine/Dimer Tallate Copolymer?

Vegans or those avoiding animal-derived ingredients

Research sources

CosIng - European CommissionOpenFDA Cosmetics DatabaseOpenPersonal Care Council - Ingredient SafetyOpen

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.