Ingredient review
Polyurea Crosspolymer-3
INCI: POLYUREA CROSSPOLYMER-3
A synthetic film-former that helps makeup and sunscreen last longer, but offers no active skincare benefit.
In plain English
Polyurea Crosspolymer-3 is a man-made ingredient that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. This film helps other ingredients, like sunscreen filters or makeup pigments, stay put longer and resist water and sweat. It doesn't moisturize or treat skin—it's purely a performance booster for cosmetic products.
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-3 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-3.
- 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 urea and other monomers, designed to form a durable yet flexible 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 acts as a barrier that locks in pigments and UV filters, improving product adherence and water resistance.
Pros
Boosts product longevity
Helps makeup and sunscreen stay intact for hours, reducing the need for touch-ups.
Enhances water resistance
Creates a barrier that resists sweat and humidity, ideal for active lifestyles or humid climates.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
This ingredient only improves product performance; it doesn't hydrate, soothe, or treat skin conditions.
Synthetic and non-biodegradable
Derived from petrochemicals and not readily broken down in the environment, which may be a concern for eco-conscious users.
Best for
- Anyone wanting longer-lasting makeup or sunscreen
- People with oily or combination skin who need extra staying power
Use caution if
- Those who prefer only natural or biodegradable ingredients
- Individuals with very dry or dehydrated skin who might find film-formers uncomfortable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyurea Crosspolymer-3 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Safety assessments rely on general polymer toxicology and analog studies. No specific peer-reviewed human studies were found for this exact ingredient, but it is structurally similar to other widely used film-formers with a strong safety record.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascaras, Setting sprays
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in low concentrations and is not known to bioaccumulate.
Good to know
- Often found in combination with other film-formers like acrylates copolymer for even stronger wear.
- Listed under INCI name POLYUREA CROSSPOLYMER-3; may appear in ingredient lists as simply 'Polyurea Crosspolymer'.
Common questions
What is Polyurea Crosspolymer-3 in beauty products?
Polyurea Crosspolymer-3 is a man-made ingredient that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. This film helps other ingredients, like sunscreen filters or makeup pigments, stay put longer and resist water and sweat. It doesn't moisturize or treat skin—it's purely a performance booster for cosmetic products.
What does Polyurea Crosspolymer-3 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 acts as a barrier that locks in pigments and UV filters, improving product adherence and water resistance.
Is Polyurea Crosspolymer-3 safe for most people?
Polyurea Crosspolymer-3 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Polyurea Crosspolymer-3?
Those who prefer only natural or biodegradable ingredients Individuals with very dry or dehydrated skin who might 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.