What Is Bis-Decyltetradecanyl Ipdi/Peg-795 Copolymer?
Bis-Decyltetradecanyl IPDI/PEG-795 Copolymer is a man-made ingredient created by linking together isophorone diisocyanate with a long chain of polyethylene glycol, then finishing the chain with a fatty alcohol called 2-decyl-1-tetradecanol. The result is a large, flexible molecule that behaves a lot like a soft film when spread on skin. It first appeared in cosmetic chemistry in the early 2000s when formulators were looking for new ways to give products a smooth feel without relying on silicones. Making the copolymer involves controlled reactions in a factory setting where temperature and moisture are tightly monitored to keep the chains uniform and safe for skin use.
You will usually spot this ingredient in leave-on products that need a lightweight seal on the skin, such as facial moisturizers, eye creams, anti-aging serums and long-wear makeup. It also shows up in hair styling creams and conditioners where it helps keep flyaways down.
Bis-Decyltetradecanyl Ipdi/Peg-795 Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Here is what this ingredient brings to the table in a beauty formula:
- Film forming: It creates a thin, breathable layer on skin or hair that locks in moisture, boosts the durability of makeup and adds a subtle, soft-focus finish
- Viscosity controlling: It helps thicken or stabilize a formula so lotions stay silky, creams feel rich and products don’t separate on the shelf
Who Can Use Bis-Decyltetradecanyl Ipdi/Peg-795 Copolymer
Thanks to its light breathable film Bis-Decyltetradecanyl IPDI/PEG-795 Copolymer suits nearly every skin type from dry to oily as it seals in water without feeling greasy. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well because the molecule is too large to penetrate deeply yet very reactive or compromised skin might prefer a patch-free routine with fewer synthetics. Extremely acne-prone users who break out easily from any occlusive layer may want to monitor how their skin responds since the fatty end groups could, in rare cases, feel heavy.
The material is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived components so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No studies have flagged this ingredient as problematic during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It does not mimic hormones and is not absorbed systemically to a significant extent. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show their skincare lineup to a healthcare professional to be sure.
Bis-Decyltetradecanyl IPDI/PEG-795 Copolymer is not known to cause photosensitivity so wearing it in daytime products will not make skin more vulnerable to sunburn. It also plays well with sunscreen filters and makeup actives, meaning it rarely interferes with other ingredients in a routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Bis-Decyltetradecanyl IPDI/PEG-795 Copolymer differ from one person to another. The points below cover potential issues yet most people will not notice any problems when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals reactive to isocyanate remnants
- Transient clogged pores or small bumps in users already prone to acne
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Scalp buildup or dullness when overused in leave-on hair products
If irritation or any other unwanted reaction develops stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. The copolymer forms a lightweight breathable film that sits on the surface and has a bulky structure that makes it unlikely to wedge into pores. Its fatty tail could add a hint of occlusion in very oily skins but most users will not see clogged pores. Suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts unless they already react to any seal-forming ingredient.
Because this material is often used at low levels and has a smooth non-sticky finish, it tends to rinse off easily during regular cleansing which further keeps pore blockage low.
Summary
Bis-Decyltetradecanyl IPDI/PEG-795 Copolymer acts mainly as a film former and viscosity controller. Its long flexible chain spreads into an invisible mesh that locks in water, boosts makeup wear and leaves skin or hair feeling silky while its sizeable backbone thickens formulas so lotions stay stable and creamy.
It is a niche silicone alternative that shows up in modern moisturizers, eye creams and styling products but is not yet a household name because formulators still rely heavily on more familiar polymers.
Current data finds it low risk for irritation, allergy or systemic absorption so everyday use is considered safe. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to do a quick patch test when trying a product containing this copolymer just to be cautious.