Ingredient review
Polyurethane-76
INCI: Polyurethane-76
A synthetic film-former that helps makeup last longer and resist water, but may feel heavy or tight on some skin types.
In plain English
Polyurethane-76 is a man-made plastic-like ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. In cosmetics, it helps products like foundation or mascara stay put longer, resist sweat and water, and feel less sticky than older formulas. Think of it as a gentle, invisible shield that keeps your makeup in place without cracking or flaking.
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-76 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-76.
- 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
Polyurethane-76 is a synthetic polymer belonging to the polyurethane family. It is created by reacting diisocyanates with polyols, resulting in a flexible, durable film. In cosmetics, it is used as a film-forming agent that provides water resistance and long wear.
How it works
When applied, Polyurethane-76 forms a continuous, flexible film on the skin or hair surface. This film acts as a barrier that resists water, sweat, and friction, helping pigments and other ingredients stay in place. Unlike some older film-formers, it remains flexible, so it doesn't crack or feel stiff.
Pros
Excellent wear time
Helps makeup and sunscreen stay put for hours, even in humid or sweaty conditions, reducing the need for touch-ups.
Flexible feel
Unlike some stiff film-formers, Polyurethane-76 remains flexible, so it moves with your skin and won't crack or feel like a mask.
Cons and cautions
Can feel heavy
On dry or sensitive skin, the film may feel tight or heavy, especially if layered under other products.
Requires double cleansing
Because it's water-resistant, you may need an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to fully remove it, adding an extra step to your routine.
Best for
- People who want long-wearing, water-resistant makeup or sunscreen
- Those with normal to oily skin who prefer a matte finish
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin who may find film-formers uncomfortable
- Those who prefer entirely natural or plant-based ingredient lists
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyurethane-76 is considered low risk for irritation and comedogenicity. It is widely used in cosmetics and has a good safety profile when used as directed. However, individuals with very sensitive skin may experience tightness or discomfort.
Research notes
Research on polyurethane polymers in cosmetics focuses on their film-forming properties and safety. Studies indicate they are well-tolerated on skin and provide effective water resistance. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review has concluded that polyurethane polymers are safe for use in cosmetics.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated polyurethane polymers and found them safe for topical use at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascaras, Sunscreens, Hair styling products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, Polyurethane-76 is not biodegradable. Its environmental impact depends on formulation and disposal, but it is not known to accumulate in the environment at concerning levels.
Good to know
- Polyurethane-76 is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies when used as intended.
- It is often combined with other film-formers to fine-tune the feel and durability of a product.
Common questions
What is Polyurethane-76 in beauty products?
Polyurethane-76 is a man-made plastic-like ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. In cosmetics, it helps products like foundation or mascara stay put longer, resist sweat and water, and feel less sticky than older formulas. Think of it as a gentle, invisible shield that keeps your makeup in place without cracking or flaking.
What does Polyurethane-76 do in a beauty product?
When applied, Polyurethane-76 forms a continuous, flexible film on the skin or hair surface. This film acts as a barrier that resists water, sweat, and friction, helping pigments and other ingredients stay in place. Unlike some older film-formers, it remains flexible, so it doesn't crack or feel stiff.
Is Polyurethane-76 safe for most people?
Polyurethane-76 is considered low risk for irritation and comedogenicity. It is widely used in cosmetics and has a good safety profile when used as directed. However, individuals with very sensitive skin may experience tightness or discomfort.
Who should be careful with Polyurethane-76?
Individuals with very dry or sensitive skin who may find film-formers uncomfortable Those who prefer entirely natural or plant-based ingredient lists
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.