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

RUBBER LATEX.

Avoid CAS 9006-04-6 / FILM FORMING, OPACIFYING

Rubber Latex is a natural polymer derived from the rubber tree, valued in specific cosmetic applications for its ability to create a flexible, waterproof film. However, its significant allergenic potential and association with severe immune responses make it a high-risk ingredient for skincare.

Summary

Film-forming agent Opacifier Protective barrier

Science

Mechanism of Action

Natural rubber latex functions by forming a continuous film on skin, hair, or nails as its polymer particles coalesce and solidify upon drying. This process creates a flexible, protective, and waterproof barrier. It also serves as an opacifying agent in cosmetic formulations.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The FDA documented 30 reports of allergic reactions, ranging from skin irritations to anaphylactic shock, involving cosmetic products containing natural rubber latex between January 2015 and September 2017.
  2. 02 Natural rubber latex proteins are recognized triggers for IgE-mediated allergic reactions, including Type I immediate hypersensitivity, which can manifest upon skin contact.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 7.8 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Natural rubber latex exhibits optimal stability within alkaline pH ranges, typically between 7.8 and 10.0, with specific agglomeration stability often noted between 7.8 and 8.5. Alkalinity, commonly maintained with ammonia, enhances stability and prevents bacterial proliferation. Conversely, acidic conditions, particularly lowering the pH to the protein isoelectric point (around 4-5), lead to destabilization, coagulation, and precipitation. Strong mechanical forces during storage and processing, as well as freezing, can also compromise its stability.

Conflicts

  • Acidic substances (cause destabilization and pre-coagulation)
  • Strong mechanical forces (reduce stability)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk High

Natural rubber latex contains antigenic proteins that can elicit an immune response, leading to allergic reactions in an estimated 1-6% of the general population. The FDA expresses concern about consumer awareness of its presence in cosmetics and requires ingredient listing, though not a specific latex allergy warning. Allergic reactions encompass skin irritations, rashes, respiratory issues, and potentially life-threatening anaphylactic shock. Sensitivity can progressively develop with repeated exposure.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High (due to potent allergenic potential, capable of inducing contact dermatitis, rashes, and severe allergic reactions in sensitized individuals)
Comedogenicity Unknown (no specific comedogenicity ratings or studies are available; while its film-forming nature could be occlusive, the primary concern remains its significant allergenic profile)

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Due to its high allergenic potential and documented risk of severe reactions, Natural Rubber Latex is strongly discouraged for use in precision skincare formulations.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…