Ingredient review
Polyamide-14 Copolymer
INCI: LAUROLACTAM/POLY(1,4-BUTANEDIOL)-14/DODECANEDIOIC ACID COPOLYMER
A synthetic film-former that helps makeup and skincare stay put without feeling heavy or sticky.
In plain English
This ingredient is a type of plastic-like polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. It's commonly used in long-wear makeup and sunscreens to help them resist water, sweat, and smudging. Think of it as an invisible shield that keeps your product in place without clogging pores or feeling greasy.
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
Polyamide-14 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 Polyamide-14 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 from laurolactam, butanediol, and dodecanedioic acid. It belongs to the polyamide family and is engineered to form a durable yet flexible film on the skin or hair.
How it works
When applied, the polymer molecules link together to form a continuous, breathable film. This film adheres to the skin's surface, locking in other ingredients and creating a barrier against moisture loss and external elements. It also helps suspend pigments evenly for consistent color payoff.
Pros
Long-lasting wear
Creates a flexible film that helps makeup and sunscreen resist sweat, water, and rubbing, so you need fewer touch-ups.
Lightweight feel
Unlike older film-formers, this polymer forms a thin, breathable layer that doesn't feel heavy or sticky on the skin.
Cons and cautions
Potential tightness
On very dry or sensitive skin, the film can feel slightly tight or uncomfortable, especially if layered with other drying ingredients.
Removal challenge
Because it's water-resistant, you may need an oil-based or micellar cleanser to fully remove products containing this polymer.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-lasting makeup or sunscreen
- People with oily or combination skin who prefer matte finishes
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or dehydrated skin who find film-formers uncomfortable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns reported in available literature.
Research notes
Limited independent studies on this specific copolymer, but polyamide film-formers as a class have a long history of safe use 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 EU, US, and other major markets. No known restrictions at typical usage levels.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascaras, Sunscreens, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not considered a major environmental concern compared to microplastics.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed under the simpler name 'Polyamide-14' on some labels.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies at typical concentrations.
Common questions
What is Polyamide-14 Copolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a type of plastic-like polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. It's commonly used in long-wear makeup and sunscreens to help them resist water, sweat, and smudging. Think of it as an invisible shield that keeps your product in place without clogging pores or feeling greasy.
What does Polyamide-14 Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer molecules link together to form a continuous, breathable film. This film adheres to the skin's surface, locking in other ingredients and creating a barrier against moisture loss and external elements. It also helps suspend pigments evenly for consistent color payoff.
Is Polyamide-14 Copolymer safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns reported in available literature.
Who should be careful with Polyamide-14 Copolymer?
Those with very dry or dehydrated skin who find film-formers uncomfortable
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.