Ingredient review
PPG-2 Diurethane
INCI: BIS-(C12-14 ALKYL PPG-2) HEXAMETHYLENEDIUREA
A synthetic film-former that helps products stay put and resist water, but offers no active skincare benefit.
In plain English
This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that helps makeup last longer and keeps sunscreen from washing off easily. It doesn't moisturize or treat your skin—it's purely a performance ingredient that improves how a product feels and stays on.
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
PPG-2 Diurethane 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 PPG-2 Diurethane.
- 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 derived from hexamethylenediurea and PPG-2 (a propylene glycol derivative) with C12-14 alkyl chains. It is designed to form a flexible, water-resistant film on the skin or hair.
How it works
When applied, the polymer chains spread out and link together as the solvent evaporates, creating a continuous, breathable film. This film physically blocks water and sebum from breaking down the product, while also helping other ingredients (like pigments or UV filters) adhere evenly.
Pros
Boosts water resistance
Helps sunscreens and makeup stay effective even when you sweat or swim, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
Improves wear time
Creates a flexible film that keeps foundation, concealer, or eye makeup in place for hours without cracking or fading.
Cons and cautions
No active benefit
This ingredient only improves product performance—it doesn't hydrate, soothe, or treat your skin in any way.
Can feel tight on dry skin
The film it forms may feel slightly stiff or uncomfortable if your skin is already dry or dehydrated, especially in cold weather.
Best for
- Anyone wanting longer-lasting makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
- People with oily or combination skin who struggle with product fading
Use caution if
- Those who prefer minimal, simple ingredient lists
- People with very dry or dehydrated skin who may find film-formers uncomfortable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
There is limited published research specifically on this ingredient, but it belongs to a well-studied class of polyurethane film-formers. Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels have found these polymers to be safe when used as intended.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. No specific concentration limits are set, but typical use is low (under 5%).
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Waterproof makeup, Long-wear foundations, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it may not be biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to accumulate in the environment.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in 'long-wear' or 'waterproof' formulas.
- It is not a humectant or emollient—it won't add moisture to your skin.
- The 'PPG-2' part means it has a short propylene glycol chain, making the film flexible rather than brittle.
Common questions
What is PPG-2 Diurethane in beauty products?
This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. Think of it like a clear, invisible shield that helps makeup last longer and keeps sunscreen from washing off easily. It doesn't moisturize or treat your skin—it's purely a performance ingredient that improves how a product feels and stays on.
What does PPG-2 Diurethane do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer chains spread out and link together as the solvent evaporates, creating a continuous, breathable film. This film physically blocks water and sebum from breaking down the product, while also helping other ingredients (like pigments or UV filters) adhere evenly.
Is PPG-2 Diurethane safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with PPG-2 Diurethane?
Those who prefer minimal, simple ingredient lists People with very dry or dehydrated 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.