Ingredient review
Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer
INCI: POLYURETHANE-24/METHYL METHACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER
A synthetic polymer that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put longer without feeling heavy or greasy.
In plain English
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps other ingredients stick around longer, so your sunscreen or foundation doesn't slide off or fade quickly. Think of it like a gentle, invisible glue that holds your makeup or SPF in place, but it's not sticky or pore-clogging for most people.
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
Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer 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 Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer.
- 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 polyurethane and methyl methacrylate, designed to create a flexible film on the skin.
How it works
When applied, the polymer particles spread into a uniform, breathable film that locks in active ingredients and resists water and sweat. It also thickens the product slightly, giving it a smooth, silky feel.
Pros
Boosts wear time
Helps sunscreen and makeup resist water, sweat, and rubbing, so you don't need to reapply as often.
Lightweight feel
Unlike some older film-formers, this polymer creates a thin, flexible film that doesn't feel heavy or sticky on skin.
Cons and cautions
Not natural
It is a fully synthetic ingredient, which may not appeal to those seeking plant-based or biodegradable options.
Potential tightness
On very dry or dehydrated skin, the film can create a slight tightening sensation, similar to a light mask.
Best for
- Anyone wanting longer-lasting sunscreen or makeup
- People with normal to oily skin who prefer a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those who prefer 100% natural or biodegradable formulas
- Individuals with very dry or flaky skin who may find film-formers uncomfortable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic applications.
Research notes
Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels have found this polymer to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical use levels. It is widely used in sunscreens and long-wear makeup 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 many other regions. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Foundations, Long-wear makeup, Water-resistant formulas
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in low concentrations and is not known to accumulate in the environment significantly.
Good to know
- This polymer is often used in combination with other film-formers to balance flexibility and durability.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies at typical concentrations.
Common questions
What is Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It helps other ingredients stick around longer, so your sunscreen or foundation doesn't slide off or fade quickly. Think of it like a gentle, invisible glue that holds your makeup or SPF in place, but it's not sticky or pore-clogging for most people.
What does Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer particles spread into a uniform, breathable film that locks in active ingredients and resists water and sweat. It also thickens the product slightly, giving it a smooth, silky feel.
Is Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in cosmetic applications.
Who should be careful with Polyurethane-24/Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer?
Those who prefer 100% natural or biodegradable formulas Individuals with very dry or flaky skin who may 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.