Ingredient review
Polyurea Crosspolymer-2
INCI: Polyurea Crosspolymer-2
A synthetic film-former that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put longer, but offers no active skincare benefit.
In plain English
Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that helps makeup resist sweat, water, and smudging. It's commonly used in long-wear foundations, sunscreens, and eyeliners to keep them in place. It doesn't moisturize or treat skin—it's purely a texture and performance booster.
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
Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 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 Polyurea Crosspolymer-2.
- 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 polymer (a large molecule made of repeating units) created through a chemical reaction between polyurea and a crosslinking agent. It is designed to form a uniform, flexible film on the skin.
How it works
When applied, the polymer molecules spread into a thin, even layer. As the product dries, they link together into a continuous film that physically blocks water and oil from disturbing the product underneath. This film also helps suspend pigments evenly, improving color payoff and longevity.
Pros
Boosts wear time
Helps foundation and sunscreen stay intact for hours, even in humid or active conditions.
Lightweight feel
Forms a thin, flexible film that doesn't feel heavy or cakey on the skin.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
It doesn't hydrate, soothe, or treat skin—it's purely a performance ingredient.
Potential tightness
On very dry or sensitive skin, the film may create a slight tightening sensation.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-wear, water-resistant makeup or sunscreen
- People with oily or combination skin who struggle with makeup sliding off
Use caution if
- Those who prefer minimal, simple ingredient lists and avoid synthetic polymers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been reported in peer-reviewed literature or regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Research on Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 is limited to formulation studies. It is well-documented as a film-former in cosmetic science, with no evidence of toxicity or sensitization at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. No specific restrictions at typical usage levels.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Long-wear foundations, Water-resistant makeup, Eye liners
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to accumulate in the environment at concerning levels.
Good to know
- Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 is often used alongside UV filters to improve sunscreen water resistance.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies at typical concentrations.
Common questions
What is Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 in beauty products?
Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that helps makeup resist sweat, water, and smudging. It's commonly used in long-wear foundations, sunscreens, and eyeliners to keep them in place. It doesn't moisturize or treat skin—it's purely a texture and performance booster.
What does Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer molecules spread into a thin, even layer. As the product dries, they link together into a continuous film that physically blocks water and oil from disturbing the product underneath. This film also helps suspend pigments evenly, improving color payoff and longevity.
Is Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 safe for most people?
Polyurea Crosspolymer-2 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been reported in peer-reviewed literature or regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Polyurea Crosspolymer-2?
Those who prefer minimal, simple ingredient lists and avoid synthetic polymers
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.