Ingredient review
Palm Acid/Adipic Acid/Pentaerythritol Crosspolymer
INCI: PALM ACID/ADIPIC ACID/PENTAERYTHRITOL CROSSPOLYMER
A synthetic film-former that helps products stay put and resist water, but offers no active skincare benefit.
In plain English
This ingredient is a type of plastic-like polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or lips. It's added to cosmetics to help them last longer, resist water and sweat, and feel smooth. Think of it like a clear, invisible coat that helps your makeup or sunscreen stay in place without rubbing off easily.
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
Palm Acid/Adipic Acid/Pentaerythritol Crosspolymer 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 Palm Acid/Adipic Acid/Pentaerythritol Crosspolymer.
- 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 crosslinked polymer made from palm fatty acids, adipic acid, and pentaerythritol. It is designed to create a flexible, water-resistant film on the skin.
How it works
When applied, the polymer molecules link together to form a continuous, breathable film on the skin's surface. This film helps other ingredients (like sunscreen filters or pigments) adhere better and resist removal by water, sweat, or friction.
Pros
Boosts wear time
Helps makeup and sunscreen stay on longer, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
Water-resistant finish
Creates a barrier that resists water and sweat, ideal for active lifestyles or humid weather.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Made from petrochemical or processed plant sources, which may not suit those preferring natural ingredients.
No active benefit
Functions only as a film-former; it does not moisturize, soothe, or treat skin conditions.
Best for
- People who want long-wearing, water-resistant makeup or sunscreen
- Those with oily skin who need products that stay put
Use caution if
- Anyone seeking purely natural or plant-based formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been reported in published literature.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this crosspolymer, but similar film-forming polymers have been extensively evaluated for safety and performance. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has reviewed related crosspolymers and found them safe for use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar crosspolymers and found them safe when formulated properly.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Waterproof makeup, Long-wear foundations, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it may not be biodegradable. However, it is used in low concentrations and is not known to accumulate in the environment significantly.
Good to know
- This polymer is often used in combination with other film-formers to fine-tune texture and durability.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies at typical concentrations.
Common questions
What is Palm Acid/Adipic Acid/Pentaerythritol Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a type of plastic-like polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or lips. It's added to cosmetics to help them last longer, resist water and sweat, and feel smooth. Think of it like a clear, invisible coat that helps your makeup or sunscreen stay in place without rubbing off easily.
What does Palm Acid/Adipic Acid/Pentaerythritol Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer molecules link together to form a continuous, breathable film on the skin's surface. This film helps other ingredients (like sunscreen filters or pigments) adhere better and resist removal by water, sweat, or friction.
Is Palm Acid/Adipic Acid/Pentaerythritol Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been reported in published literature.
Who should be careful with Palm Acid/Adipic Acid/Pentaerythritol Crosspolymer?
Anyone seeking purely natural or plant-based formulations
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.