Ingredient review
Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/IPDI Copolymer
INCI: Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/IPDI Copolymer
A synthetic film-former that helps products stay put and resist water, but offers no direct skin benefit.
In plain English
This ingredient is a man-made polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. It's often added to sunscreens and long-wear makeup to help them stay in place longer and resist water or sweat. Think of it like a gentle, invisible glue that holds the product on your skin without feeling heavy or sticky.
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
Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/IPDI 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 Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/IPDI 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 by reacting glycereth-7 (a glycerin derivative) with hydroxystearic acid and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI). It is designed to form a flexible, water-resistant film on the skin.
How it works
When applied, the copolymer molecules link together to form a thin, breathable film on the skin's surface. This film helps other ingredients (like UV filters or pigments) stay evenly distributed and resist being washed off by water or sweat.
Pros
Boosts water resistance
Helps sunscreens and makeup stay effective longer when you're swimming or sweating, so you don't have to reapply as often.
Lightweight feel
Unlike some older film-formers, this copolymer creates a flexible film that doesn't feel tight or sticky on the skin.
Cons and cautions
No direct skin benefit
It's a functional ingredient that improves product performance but doesn't moisturize, soothe, or treat skin conditions.
Synthetic origin
Made from petrochemical derivatives, which may be a turn-off for those seeking natural or 'clean' beauty products.
Best for
- Anyone wanting longer-lasting sunscreen or makeup
- People who swim or sweat and need water-resistant products
Use caution if
- Those who prefer 100% natural or minimal-ingredient routines
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in cosmetic use.
Research notes
Limited independent studies on this specific copolymer, but film-forming polymers as a class are well-studied for safety and efficacy in cosmetics. Safety assessments rely on analog data from similar 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 specific concentration limits are set, but typical use is low.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Long-wear makeup, Water-resistant lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, its biodegradability is limited. It may contribute to microplastic concerns if not properly filtered during wastewater treatment.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used alongside UV filters to improve SPF performance in water.
- It is not a preservative, fragrance, or active skincare ingredient.
Common questions
What is Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/IPDI Copolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a man-made polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. It's often added to sunscreens and long-wear makeup to help them stay in place longer and resist water or sweat. Think of it like a gentle, invisible glue that holds the product on your skin without feeling heavy or sticky.
What does Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/IPDI Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the copolymer molecules link together to form a thin, breathable film on the skin's surface. This film helps other ingredients (like UV filters or pigments) stay evenly distributed and resist being washed off by water or sweat.
Is Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/IPDI Copolymer safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in cosmetic use.
Who should be careful with Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/IPDI Copolymer?
Those who prefer 100% natural or minimal-ingredient routines
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.