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PHTHALIC ANHYDRIDE/TRIMELLITIC ANHYDRIDE/GLYCOLS COPOLYMER.

Avoid / FILM FORMING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

This synthetic polymer acts as a versatile film-forming agent, creating an ultra-thin barrier on skin or hair to protect against external stressors like chemicals and UV radiation. It also functions as a viscosity enhancer, emulsifier, and binder, contributing to improved product texture and stability in cosmetic formulations.

Film-forming Viscosity Controlling Emulsifying Stabilizing Binding

Science

This copolymer forms a continuous, ultra-thin protective film on the skin's surface, acting as a barrier against environmental aggressors such as chemical exposure, UV radiation, and pollution. Additionally, it enhances viscosity in non-aqueous systems, stabilizing formulations and contributing to a smooth, even texture.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 0–12%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Human Repeated Insult Patch Tests (HRIPTs) conducted on nail polish formulations containing up to 7.5% of this copolymer indicated no evidence of sensitization or irritation.
  2. 02 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded its safety in nail product formulations at concentrations up to 12%, which is the maximum reported usage in this product category.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The copolymer maintains stability under normal storage conditions, demonstrating compatibility with a wide range of cosmetic products due to its generally neutral pH. Protection from excessive heat and moisture is recommended.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
12%
Sensitization risk High

The CIR Expert Panel deemed this ingredient safe for use in nail product formulations, specifically at concentrations up to 12%. However, there is insufficient data to definitively determine its safety for inclusion in other cosmetic formulation types. While recognized as a polymer of low concern for cosmetic nail products by NICNAS, a significant number of contact allergy cases resulting in dermatitis have been documented.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Avoid

Despite its recognized safety in nail product formulations, the documented high risk of sensitization, medium irritancy, and insufficient safety data for general skincare applications make this ingredient unsuitable for precision skincare.


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