Ingredient review
Polyurethane-80
INCI: Polyurethane-80
Polyurethane-80 is a synthetic polymer that helps makeup and skincare products stay put longer and feel smoother, with a low risk of irritation.
In plain English
Polyurethane-80 is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. This film helps makeup last longer without smudging, and can also make the product feel silky or velvety. It's often used in long-wear foundations, waterproof mascaras, and sunscreens to improve their staying power and texture.
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-80 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-80.
- 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-80 is a synthetic polymer belonging to the polyurethane family. It is created by reacting a diisocyanate with a polyol, then modifying it to be water-dispersible. In cosmetics, it acts as a film former and viscosity modifier.
How it works
When applied to the skin, Polyurethane-80 forms a continuous, flexible film that adheres to the surface. This film helps lock in other ingredients, resist water and sweat, and prevent makeup from transferring or fading. It also thickens the product slightly, giving it a luxurious feel.
Pros
Boosts makeup longevity
Polyurethane-80 helps foundation and eye makeup resist fading, smudging, and transferring throughout the day.
Improves water resistance
In sunscreens and mascaras, it creates a barrier that keeps the product effective even when you sweat or get wet.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
If you prefer plant-based or naturally derived ingredients, this polymer may not align with your preferences.
Potential tightness on dry skin
The film it forms can feel slightly tight or uncomfortable on very dry or dehydrated skin, especially in high concentrations.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-lasting makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
- People with normal to oily skin who prefer a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or sensitive skin who find film-formers uncomfortable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyurethane-80 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. It is considered safe for most skin types when used as directed. Patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Polyurethane polymers have been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and found safe for cosmetic use. Studies show they are effective film formers with low skin penetration.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated polyurethane polymers and found them safe as used.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascaras, Sunscreens, Setting sprays
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, Polyurethane-80 is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate.
Good to know
- Polyurethane-80 is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies at typical concentrations.
- It is often combined with other film-formers to achieve a balance of flexibility and durability.
Common questions
What is Polyurethane-80 in beauty products?
Polyurethane-80 is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. This film helps makeup last longer without smudging, and can also make the product feel silky or velvety. It's often used in long-wear foundations, waterproof mascaras, and sunscreens to improve their staying power and texture.
What does Polyurethane-80 do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, Polyurethane-80 forms a continuous, flexible film that adheres to the surface. This film helps lock in other ingredients, resist water and sweat, and prevent makeup from transferring or fading. It also thickens the product slightly, giving it a luxurious feel.
Is Polyurethane-80 safe for most people?
Polyurethane-80 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. It is considered safe for most skin types when used as directed. Patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Polyurethane-80?
Those with very dry or sensitive 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.