Ingredient review
Hydrogenated Brassica/Aleurites Oil Copolymer
INCI: HYDROGENATED BRASSICA CAMPESTRIS/ALEURITES FORDI OIL COPOLYMER
A gentle, plant-derived film former that helps makeup and skincare stay put without clogging pores or irritating skin.
In plain English
This ingredient is a polymer made from hydrogenated rapeseed oil and tung oil. In cosmetics, it creates a thin, flexible film on the skin or lips that helps products last longer, resist water, and feel smooth. It's commonly found in long-wear lipsticks, waterproof mascaras, and sunscreens. Because it's derived from plant oils and hydrogenated (a process that makes it more stable), it's generally very gentle and unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation.
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
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Hydrogenated Brassica/Aleurites Oil 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 Hydrogenated Brassica/Aleurites Oil 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 semi-synthetic polymer created by chemically linking hydrogenated rapeseed oil and tung oil. The hydrogenation process saturates the oils, making them more stable and solid at room temperature, which allows the polymer to form a durable yet flexible film.
How it works
When applied, the copolymer spreads into a thin, even layer that dries to form a flexible film. This film physically locks in pigments and other ingredients, improving wear time and water resistance. It also adds a smooth, silky feel to the product and can help control viscosity (thickness) so the formula applies evenly.
Pros
Long-wear performance
Creates a flexible film that helps lipsticks and foundations stay put for hours without feathering or fading.
Gentle on skin
Derived from plant oils and hydrogenated for stability, it has a very low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons and cautions
Potential tightness
In high concentrations, the film can feel slightly tight or heavy on very dry skin, especially in lip products.
Environmental uncertainty
As a semi-synthetic polymer, its biodegradability varies; it may contribute to microplastic concerns if not properly formulated.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-lasting lip color or waterproof eye makeup
- People with oily or combination skin who prefer transfer-resistant products
Use caution if
- Those with extremely dry or dehydrated skin may find film-forming ingredients too occlusive
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for cosmetic use with very low irritation and comedogenic potential. The hydrogenation process reduces any allergenic proteins from the original oils. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this copolymer, but hydrogenated plant oil polymers in general are well-established as safe and effective film-formers. Safety assessments rely on analogy to similar hydrogenated oil derivatives.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. No specific concentration restrictions, but formulators typically use it at 1–10%.
- Common uses
- Lipsticks, Lip balms, Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascaras, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Derived from renewable plant oils, but as a polymer, its biodegradability depends on the specific molecular weight and formulation. Some studies suggest hydrogenated plant oil polymers can degrade slowly in the environment.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used as a plant-based alternative to synthetic film-formers like acrylates copolymer.
- It is not water-soluble, so it requires an oil-based cleanser for complete removal.
Common questions
What is Hydrogenated Brassica/Aleurites Oil Copolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a polymer made from hydrogenated rapeseed oil and tung oil. In cosmetics, it creates a thin, flexible film on the skin or lips that helps products last longer, resist water, and feel smooth. It's commonly found in long-wear lipsticks, waterproof mascaras, and sunscreens. Because it's derived from plant oils and hydrogenated (a process that makes it more stable), it's generally very gentle and unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation.
What does Hydrogenated Brassica/Aleurites Oil Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the copolymer spreads into a thin, even layer that dries to form a flexible film. This film physically locks in pigments and other ingredients, improving wear time and water resistance. It also adds a smooth, silky feel to the product and can help control viscosity (thickness) so the formula applies evenly.
Is Hydrogenated Brassica/Aleurites Oil Copolymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for cosmetic use with very low irritation and comedogenic potential. The hydrogenation process reduces any allergenic proteins from the original oils. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Hydrogenated Brassica/Aleurites Oil Copolymer?
Those with extremely dry or dehydrated skin may find film-forming ingredients too occlusive
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.