Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient functions by creating a flexible, protective film upon application to the skin, which acts as an occlusive barrier to minimize transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and condition the skin's surface. More broadly, polyurethanes can foster fibroblast organization and extracellular matrix deposition, demonstrating relevance in wound healing and re-epithelialization, although specific clinical efficacy for POLYURETHANE-25 in targeted skincare concerns beyond occlusion requires further dedicated investigation.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
POLYURETHANE-25 is typically supplied as an emulsion or solution, facilitating its seamless integration into aqueous formulations. It demonstrates robust stability within a pH range of 4.0 to 9.0 under standard environmental conditions, showing resistance to significant hydrolysis. However, exposure to extreme acidity (pH ~1.0-3.0) can lead to potential hydrolysis of its amide groups, and sustained temperatures exceeding 49°C (120°F), high humidity, or UV radiation can impact its physical properties and long-term stability.
Conflicts
- Strong acids (e.g., Sulfuric Acid)
- Certain aliphatic ketones (e.g., Acetone, Methyl Ethyl Ketone)
- Phenol
- Nitrobenzene
- Tetrahydrofuran
- Benzene
- Carbon Tetrachloride
- Formaldehyde
- Formic Acid
- Ethyl Acetate
- Anhydrous Ammonia
- Formulations containing high concentrations of additional sensitizers, particularly if introduced via the raw material supplier (e.g., Methylisothiazolinone)
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has affirmed POLYURETHANE-25, alongside 65 related polyurethane ingredients, as safe for use in cosmetic products at current concentrations, provided the final formulation is non-sensitizing. The panel concluded that these ingredients are free of detectable residual isocyanates or other monomeric impurities. However, formulators must remain vigilant as raw material polyurethanes may be supplied within emulsions or solutions that contain known sensitizers, such as methylisothiazolinone (MI); combining multiple sources of such sensitizers should be avoided to prevent inadvertently achieving high, potentially sensitizing concentrations.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
POLYURETHANE-25 is a valuable polymeric ingredient for formulations aiming to enhance skin feel, provide occlusive conditioning, or improve product adhesion, offering a strong safety profile when correctly formulated within its specified parameters.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…