Ingredient review
VP/Dimethiconylacrylate/Polycarbamyl/Polyglycol Ester
INCI: VP/DIMETHICONYLACRYLATE/POLYCARBAMYL/POLYGLYCOL ESTER
A silicone polymer that creates a flexible, water-resistant film on skin for longer-lasting makeup and sunscreen.
In plain English
This is a synthetic ingredient that forms a thin, flexible, water-resistant film on your skin. It's often used in long-wear makeup and sunscreens to help them stay put without feeling heavy or sticky. Think of it like a clear, breathable shield that keeps your foundation from sliding off or your sunscreen from washing away with sweat.
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
VP/Dimethiconylacrylate/Polycarbamyl/Polyglycol Ester 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 VP/Dimethiconylacrylate/Polycarbamyl/Polyglycol Ester.
- 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 high-molecular-weight silicone polymer created by combining vinylpyrrolidone (VP) with dimethiconylacrylate and other polyurethane-like segments. It is a synthetic, film-forming ingredient designed for cosmetic use.
How it works
When applied, the polymer chains spread across the skin and link together as the solvent evaporates, forming a continuous, flexible film. This film physically locks in pigments and active ingredients, resists water and oil, and helps the product stay in place for hours.
Pros
Excellent film-forming ability
Creates a durable, flexible film that helps makeup and sunscreen resist sweat, water, and rubbing throughout the day.
Lightweight feel
Unlike some older film-formers, this polymer dries down to a smooth, non-tacky finish that doesn't feel heavy or greasy on the skin.
Cons and cautions
Can be hard to remove
The water-resistant film may require an oil-based cleanser or double cleansing to fully remove, which can be inconvenient for some routines.
Potential for tightness
On very dry or sensitive skin, the film may create a slight tightening sensation, especially if layered over other drying ingredients.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-lasting, transfer-resistant makeup
- People who need water-resistant sunscreen for outdoor activities
Use caution if
- Those who prefer minimal, easily removable products
Usage tips
Safety summary
This ingredient is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been reported in published literature or regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Evidence is based on general safety data for silicone film-formers and polymer chemistry. No specific human clinical trials are widely available, but the ingredient class is well-established in cosmetics with a long history of safe use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in leave-on formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar silicone film-formers and found them safe at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascaras, Sunscreens, Primers, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic silicone polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate significantly.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often listed near the end of an ingredient list because it's used at low concentrations.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies.
Common questions
What is VP/Dimethiconylacrylate/Polycarbamyl/Polyglycol Ester in beauty products?
This is a synthetic ingredient that forms a thin, flexible, water-resistant film on your skin. It's often used in long-wear makeup and sunscreens to help them stay put without feeling heavy or sticky. Think of it like a clear, breathable shield that keeps your foundation from sliding off or your sunscreen from washing away with sweat.
What does VP/Dimethiconylacrylate/Polycarbamyl/Polyglycol Ester do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer chains spread across the skin and link together as the solvent evaporates, forming a continuous, flexible film. This film physically locks in pigments and active ingredients, resists water and oil, and helps the product stay in place for hours.
Is VP/Dimethiconylacrylate/Polycarbamyl/Polyglycol Ester safe for most people?
This ingredient is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been reported in published literature or regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with VP/Dimethiconylacrylate/Polycarbamyl/Polyglycol Ester?
Those who prefer minimal, easily removable products
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.