Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle

NYLON-6/12.

Valuable CAS 25191-04-2 / ABSORBENT, BULKING, OPACIFYING

NYLON-6/12 is a versatile synthetic polymer, often presented as a spherical microporous powder, primarily used in skincare for its absorbent, bulking, and opacifying properties. It effectively manages skin greasiness and delivers a smooth, matte finish, enhancing the sensorial experience of formulations.

absorbent/mattifier bulking agent opacifying agent film-forming agent emollient controlled release agent

Science

This ingredient functions by efficiently absorbing excess water and oil, thus reducing shine and stickiness on the skin. As a bulking agent, it decreases the apparent density of cosmetic products. Its unique microporous structure, with a higher surface area and lower crystallinity compared to Nylon-6, allows it to adsorb active cosmetic ingredients in significant quantities and release them in a controlled, sustained manner. When formulated, particularly as a fine powder, it imparts a velvety touch, offers a soft focus effect to visually blur imperfections, and acts as both a film-forming agent and an emollient, improving product longevity and contributing to skin moisturization.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 Nylon 6/12 was an active component in an anti-redness serum clinically demonstrated to significantly alleviate facial redness linked to winter xerosis in individuals with self-perceived sensitive skin. The product exhibited excellent tolerability with no reported adverse reactions.
  2. 02 In a patent, Nylon 6/12 (specifically Orgasol® 4000 EXD NAT COS Caresse) was incorporated at 1.00% within a cosmetic composition to enhance the sun protection factor and boost water resistance in sunscreen products.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Nylon 6/12 exhibits robust stability across a wide pH spectrum and demonstrates good compatibility with various electrolytes. As a spherical microporous powder, it is specifically designed for straightforward dispersion in water-continuous formulations and possesses a high absorption capacity for both aqueous and oily components.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Nylon 6/12, alongside related nylons, is safe for use in cosmetics under current practices. Clinical studies have consistently shown no irritation, sensitization, photo-irritation, photo-sensitization, or product-related adverse reactions. Furthermore, Nylon 6/12 is approved by the FDA for indirect food contact surfaces (21 CFR §177.1500).


Your Skin

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

Nylon-6/12 is a valuable ingredient due to its multifaceted benefits, including oil absorption, texture enhancement, a matte finish, and controlled active ingredient release, making it suitable for a broad spectrum of skin types with a reassuringly low risk of irritation or comedogenicity.


Related

Finding similar ingredients…