Ingredient review
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer
INCI: PEG-200 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL/IPDI COPOLYMER
A synthetic polymer that helps makeup and skincare products last longer and feel smoother, but it's not a hydrating or active ingredient.
In plain English
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps makeup stay put longer, makes sunscreens more water-resistant, and gives products a smooth, silky feel. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that holds everything together 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
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil/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 PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil/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 created by reacting PEG-200 hydrogenated castor oil with isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI). It belongs to a class of film-forming polymers widely used in cosmetics to improve product performance.
How it works
When applied, the ingredient dries down to form a continuous, flexible film on the skin or hair. This film helps lock in other ingredients, reduces transfer of makeup, and improves water resistance. It also thickens the product's texture, making it easier to apply evenly.
Pros
Boosts product longevity
Helps foundation, mascara, and sunscreen stay put for hours, reducing the need for touch-ups.
Improves texture and feel
Gives a silky, smooth application without greasiness, making products more pleasant to use.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
It's purely a performance ingredient—it won't hydrate, soothe, or treat your skin.
May feel drying over time
The film it forms can sometimes feel tight or slightly drying, especially on already dry skin.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-lasting makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
- People with oily or combination skin who prefer a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those who prefer entirely natural or minimal-ingredient routines
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. Some individuals with very sensitive skin may notice slight tightness, but adverse reactions are rare.
Research notes
Limited independent studies specifically on this copolymer, but film-forming polymers as a class are well-studied and widely regarded as safe. Safety assessments rely on ingredient-specific data submitted by manufacturers.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU CosIng database and US FDA. Concentration limits are not specified, but typical use levels are low.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascara, Sunscreens, Lip products, Setting sprays
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it may not be biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to accumulate in the environment.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in 'transfer-proof' or '24-hour wear' makeup claims.
- It is not the same as pure castor oil—it's a chemically modified derivative.
Common questions
What is PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer in beauty products?
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps makeup stay put longer, makes sunscreens more water-resistant, and gives products a smooth, silky feel. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that holds everything together without feeling heavy or sticky.
What does PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the ingredient dries down to form a continuous, flexible film on the skin or hair. This film helps lock in other ingredients, reduces transfer of makeup, and improves water resistance. It also thickens the product's texture, making it easier to apply evenly.
Is PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. Some individuals with very sensitive skin may notice slight tightness, but adverse reactions are rare.
Who should be careful with PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer?
Those who prefer entirely 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.