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POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE.

Valuable CAS 25038-59-9 / FILM FORMING

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a versatile polymer utilized in skincare and cosmetics primarily for its film-forming properties, ability to enhance product viscosity, and as a texture modifier. It creates a protective, thin coating on the skin, contributing to product longevity and feel.

Summary

film forming adhesive hair fixative viscosity increasing agent - nonaqueous exfoliant bulking agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

PET functions by forming a thin, adhesive coating on the skin, hair, or nails. This film provides benefits such as styling retention by inhibiting moisture absorption in hair. Additionally, it increases the thickness of the lipid phase in formulations, acting as a nonaqueous viscosity-increasing agent, and can serve as an exfoliant or bulking agent to influence product texture and delivery.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1.5–46.272%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical trials demonstrated that eyeshadow formulations containing up to 15% PET caused no adverse events, dermatological issues, or sensitization in subjects, including those with very sensitive skin and contact lens wearers, over 4 weeks of daily use.
  2. 02 Multiple eye products formulated with PET, at concentrations up to 46.272%, were found to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing in use tests, even for individuals wearing contact lenses.
  3. 03 An eyeliner containing 1.5% PET showed no irritation or sensitization reactions in a repeated insult patch test.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

While Polyethylene Terephthalate can be incorporated into products as glitter or exfoliants, the provided research does not indicate it is commonly associated with airborne dusting hazards or respiratory concerns in cosmetic applications. Safety assessments primarily focus on dermal and ocular exposure.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Neither
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

PET demonstrates chemical stability and resistance to weak acids and many organic solvents. However, its ester bonds are susceptible to degradation by hot water immersion, strong alkalis, and exposure to acids or alkalis under high temperature and steam conditions.

Conflicts

  • hot water immersion
  • strong alkalis
  • acids and alkalis under high temperature and steam conditions

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
100%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed modified terephthalate polymers, including PET, safe for cosmetic use at concentrations up to 100%, citing extensive safety data from its use in FDA-approved medical devices and as an indirect food additive. It is considered biologically inert upon ingestion and safe for dermal handling, with no evidence of toxicity in animal studies. Despite past concerns regarding potential eye irritation from PET glitter, clinical studies confirm no ocular irritation or dermal sensitization under normal use conditions, and there's no record of FDA actions or case reports supporting such issues.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Polyethylene Terephthalate is a valuable, safe, and versatile film-forming and texture-enhancing ingredient, well-tolerated even by sensitive skin, and approved for a wide range of cosmetic applications.

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