Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates by forming a cohesive, adherent, and moderately sticky film upon application to the skin or hair. This film acts as a physical shield, providing an optimal balance to counteract external damage. As a polyurethane polymer, it tends to remain primarily within the upper epidermal layers, influencing the deposition of other agents onto the skin without deep penetration.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Related polyurethanes generally exhibit significant stability within a pH range of 4 to 9. Stability may decrease in strongly acidic conditions (pH 1-3) due to potential hydrolysis of amide groups. Polyether polyurethane types are typically more resilient to hydrolysis and alkaline environments compared to polyester formulations. Formulators should be vigilant regarding other components in commercially supplied polyurethane emulsions or solutions, such as potential sensitizers.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed a broad class of 66 polyurethane ingredients, including Polyurethane-2 (to which Polyurethane Crosspolymer-2 is structurally related), safe for use in cosmetics. This safety assessment is contingent on the ingredients being formulated to be non-sensitizing and free from detectable residual isocyanates or other monomers. While diisocyanates, which are monomers in polyurethanes, can pose occupational health risks, proper formulation ensures these harmful residues are not present at significant levels in cosmetic products.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
POLYURETHANE CROSSPOLYMER-2 serves as a well-established film-forming agent, deemed safe by CIR when properly formulated, offering a protective barrier against external factors, though specific clinical efficacy data for this exact crosspolymer on skin benefits is limited.
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References
Sources