What Is Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer?
Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer is a man-made ingredient created by linking two building blocks: adipic acid, a dicarboxylic acid widely used in nylon production, and PPG-10, a short chain of propylene glycol units. When these monomers are chemically bonded they form a stable copolymer whose large molecules sit on the surface of skin or hair rather than soaking in. The cosmetic industry began exploring this material in the late 1990s as brands looked for lighter weight alternatives to heavy silicones and waxes. Its consistent film-forming ability and flexible texture made it a natural fit for modern water-based formulas.
Manufacturing starts with controlled polymerization in a reactor where adipic acid is combined with PPG-10 under heat and vacuum. Catalysts drive the reaction until the desired molecular weight is reached. The resulting resin is purified, cooled and ground into a fine powder or delivered as a viscous liquid, ready for formulators to blend into finished products.
You will most often spot Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer in setting sprays, long-wear foundations, waterproof mascaras, peel-off masks, sunscreens, lightweight moisturizers and soft-touch hair styling creams where it boosts performance without a greasy feel.
Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking copolymer improves both the texture and wear of many beauty products
- Film forming: Creates an invisible breathable layer that locks active ingredients in place, boosts water resistance and helps makeup stay put for longer wear
- Plasticiser: Adds flexibility so dried films do not crack or flake, giving peel-off masks a clean removal and mascaras a softer finish
- Viscosity controlling: Adjusts thickness, allowing formulators to fine-tune whether a product feels like a light spray or a rich cream while maintaining stability
Who Can Use Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer
Because it stays on the surface rather than sinking into deeper layers, Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer is generally well tolerated by normal, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Dry or very dehydrated complexions can also use it, though they may want to pair it with richer moisturising ingredients for extra comfort. The copolymer is completely synthetic and contains no animal derived matter, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product has not been tested on animals.
Current safety data show no reason for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid topical use, as the large polymer molecules have negligible absorption. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products to their routine.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity and can be used alongside daytime sunscreens without concern. It also plays nicely with most other cosmetic actives, so you can layer it within multi step routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that have been reported, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation or redness, especially on very reactive skin
- Contact allergy resulting in itching or small rash in rare cases
- Eye stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Temporary clogged pores on extremely acne prone skin if thick layers build up and are not thoroughly cleansed
If you notice any discomfort or unexpected reaction stop using the product and seek guidance from a medical professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Because Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer molecules are large and sit on top of skin rather than penetrating pores, they are unlikely to block sebaceous ducts. The light flexible film it leaves behind is breathable and typically rinses away with standard cleansing, so buildup is minimal. A few users with very oily or congested skin may notice slight surface clogging if they layer several long-wear products containing the polymer without proper removal, which is why the rating is not a perfect zero.
Overall the ingredient is considered suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
If you already struggle with product residue, choose formulas that combine the copolymer with non-occlusive emulsifiers and make sure to cleanse thoroughly at the end of the day.
Summary
Adipic Acid/Ppg-10 Copolymer acts as a film former, plasticiser and viscosity controller. It lays down a thin uniform layer that locks active ingredients in place, keeps makeup flexible so it resists cracking and lets chemists fine-tune texture from sheer sprays to creamy lotions. These benefits have made the polymer a quiet workhorse in waterproof mascaras, setting sprays and lightweight sunscreens, though it does not have the name recognition of trendier ingredients.
Current safety reviews show low irritation potential and virtually no systemic absorption, so most people can use it without concern. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to carry out a small patch test first to check personal compatibility before applying a full face or scalp application.