Polymers
Polymers are long-chain molecules, an essential part of many formulas, playing different roles such as pH adjustment, viscosity control, sensory profile, etc. Some natural polymers can form a protective network covering the skin, guarding against UV exposure, pollution, and transdermal water loss. Others have mechanical lifting properties, allowing instantly lift and firm the skin's surface and exposing exceptional results.
Depending on requirements, polymers can also thicken, stabilize, emulsify, and texturize formulations, so those functional ingredients found their unique niche in the cosmetic industry.
Polysorbate 65 is a stearic acid triester of sorbitol, and its mono- and dianhydrides are copolymerized with approximately 20 moles of ethylene oxide. It is a tan solid soluble in vegetable oils and mineral oils. It is insoluble in water.
Polysorbate 81 is an oleic acid ester of sorbitol, and its mono- and dianhydrides copolymerized with approximately 5 moles of ethylene oxide. It is a clear pale yellow liquid that is dispersible in water and mineral oils and is soluble in vegetable oils. It may gel on standing.
Thanks to their various types and properties, polyurethanes are among the most versatile polymers used in many industries. Polyurethane-foamed seats, soles, electronic devices, balls, and ski boots are made from them.
Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is a general name for polymers (polyols with formula -[CH2CH(OH)]n
Polyvinylcaprolactam is a nonionic, film-forming, hair-setting polymer typically used in aerosol sprays, pump sprays, and lotions. Depending on the setting effect, the formulation can contain 2 – 4.5 % polymer. It is miscible with ethanol, isopropanol, and mixtures of water and alcohol.
Numerous chemical treatments, including relaxers, hair colors, and permanent waves, have been designed to meet consumers' ever-changing demands. These products enhance hair's manageability and appearance.
PPG-10 Butanediol is a propoxylated linear alkyl diol, a clear, water-white liquid. It is soluble in water, SD Alcohol 40B, Butylene Glycol, Isopropyl Myristate, Benzyl Laurate, and some natural oils. Dispersible in Cyclomethicone, Mineral Oil, and Jojoba Oil.
PPG-11 Stearyl Ether is a proproxylated (11 mole) stearyl alcohol, a clear liquid soluble in oils and insoluble in water. It is a surfactant used as an emulsifier, wetting agent, solubilizer, and conditioner in cosmetic creams, lotions, make-up, and hair care products.
PPG-14 Butyl Ether is an ether of butyl alcohol and polypropylene glycol with 14 unit chain. It facilitates dispersion of the formulation, reduces whitening, and fast release of antiperspirant actives.
PPG-15 Stearyl Ether is a polyoxypropylene (15 moles) ether with stearyl alcohol, an exceptional emollient ingredient with excellent solvent and emulsifying (HLB value of 7) properties.
PPG-15-Buteth-20 is a butyl polyoxyalkylene ether with (15 moles of polyoxypropylene and 20 moles of polyoxyethylene) used as a solubilizer for perfume concentrates, essential oils, vitamins, or other oily components in water systems without solvents like alcohol.
PPG-2 Myristyl Ether Propionate is a non-oily polymer and a nearly dry feel emollient, making this ester a suitable selection for mineral oil replacement. It improves spreading and reduces the greasy feel of mineral oils, etc.
PPG-2-Deceth-30 is a polyoxyethylene (2 moles) polyoxypropylene (20 moles) decyl ether, a white to pale yellow solid wax with a characteristic odor and melting point of 42-44C.
PPG-2-Isodeceth-12 is a nonionic alkoxylate surfactant. It is a pourable white paste, emulsifier with an HLB value of 15. It is used as a fragrance solubilizer.
PPG-26 Oleate is a propoxylated (26 mole) vegetable-based oleic acid. It is a clear, oily liquid, soluble in oils and insoluble in water.
PPG-26/Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer (trade name Pelemol® D-2000) is a clear viscous, pourable liquid that is extremely substantive and glossy. Substantivity to the skin is so intense that repeated washing with soap and water does not completely remove the product.
PPG-3 Myristyl Ether Neoheptanoate is a polymeric ester with superior pigment-wetting properties. Its unique structure contains a polymer linked to a fatty acid through an ether linkage.
PPG-30 Cetyl Ether is a 30-mole propoxylate of stearyl alcohol, a light yellow liquid.
PPG-30 Cetyl Ether imparts softness and flexibility to the skin without an occlusive feel. It is a high molecular weight fluid yet is easily emulsified and stable to extreme pH values.
PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is a polymer, used as an emollient, lubricant, and solvent. It imparts a dry, silky skin feel and reduces the greasy effect of oils and petrolatum.
PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is a white hazy liquid. In personal care applications it is typically used at 5-20%.
Promidium™ LTS is a translucent liquid nonionic surfactant complex. It is a thickener system designed for highly efficient build-in surfactant systems.
PVM/MA Copolymer is a methylvinylether and maleic acid copolymer used in various cosmetic applications as a binder, complexing agent, adhesive, film former, etc. Its aqueous solution is a clear, yellowish, viscous liquid with a slight characteristic odor.
Quaternium-92 is a quaternized lipid conditioner developed especially for the skin. It is known under the trade name Incroquat QLC.