Ingredient review
PEI-1750
INCI: PEI-1750
PEI-1750 helps products stay put and resist water, but it's a synthetic polymer with limited skin-friendly research.
In plain English
PEI-1750 is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on skin or hair. Think of it like a clear, invisible coating that helps makeup or sunscreen stay in place longer, even when you sweat or get wet. It's not a moisturizer or active treatment—it's more of a helper ingredient that improves product performance.
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
PEI-1750 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 PEI-1750.
- 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
PEI-1750 is a high-molecular-weight polyethyleneimine polymer. It is a synthetic, water-soluble compound that dries down to a flexible film.
How it works
When applied, the polymer chains spread across the surface and link together, creating a continuous film. This film physically locks in pigments or other ingredients, improving water resistance and wear time. It also helps bind powders together in pressed formulas.
Pros
Strong film-forming ability
Creates a durable, flexible film that helps makeup and sunscreen resist water, sweat, and rubbing.
Improves product texture
Helps bind powders and pigments together, giving a smooth, even application in pressed powders and eyeliners.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a man-made polymer, it may not be preferred by those seeking natural or 'clean' beauty products.
Limited skin research
There is less published safety data on PEI-1750 compared to more common film-formers like acrylates copolymers.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-wearing, water-resistant makeup or sunscreen
- People with oily skin who need products that won't slide off
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic polymers or prefer all-natural formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEI-1750 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, but long-term skin absorption data is limited.
Research notes
Most safety data comes from industry assessments and regulatory reviews. Peer-reviewed studies on PEI-1750 specifically are sparse, but related polyethyleneimine polymers have been evaluated for skin compatibility.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1–5% in rinse-off or leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng) with no specific restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Mascaras, Eyeliners, Hair styling products, Water-resistant sunscreens
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, its biodegradability is limited; it may persist in water systems after washing off.
Good to know
- PEI-1750 is not a humectant or moisturizer—it's purely a performance ingredient.
- It is often used alongside other film-formers to fine-tune water resistance.
Common questions
What is PEI-1750 in beauty products?
PEI-1750 is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on skin or hair. Think of it like a clear, invisible coating that helps makeup or sunscreen stay in place longer, even when you sweat or get wet. It's not a moisturizer or active treatment—it's more of a helper ingredient that improves product performance.
What does PEI-1750 do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer chains spread across the surface and link together, creating a continuous film. This film physically locks in pigments or other ingredients, improving water resistance and wear time. It also helps bind powders together in pressed formulas.
Is PEI-1750 safe for most people?
PEI-1750 is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, but long-term skin absorption data is limited.
Who should be careful with PEI-1750?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic polymers or prefer all-natural 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.