What Is Bis-Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Diglycol/Ipdi Copolymer?
Bis-Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Diglycol/IPDI Copolymer is a lab-made polymer created by linking together diglycol and isophorone diisocyanate, then “capping” the chain with dicaprolactone ethoxyacrylate units. The result is a clear flexible film former that clings well to hard surfaces like the nail plate.
This ingredient first appeared in professional nail products in the early 2000s when chemists were searching for alternatives to brittle resins that cracked or peeled. By adjusting the balance of soft caprolactone segments with sturdy urethane links, they produced a resin that bends with the nail yet keeps polish intact.
Manufacturing starts with diglycol reacting with isophorone diisocyanate under controlled heat to build a urethane backbone. Caprolactone is then opened and attached to add elasticity. Finally the chain is finished with ethoxyacrylate groups so the polymer can cross-link under UV or air drying, locking everything in place.
You will mainly spot this copolymer in nail polishes, base coats, top coats, gel-like “no lamp” lacquers and strengthening treatments. Its ability to form a smooth shiny shield makes it less common in skin care but invaluable in the nail aisle.
Bis-Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Diglycol/Ipdi Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas for nails this ingredient serves one key purpose that delivers several practical perks.
Nail conditioning: The copolymer forms a flexible breathable film over the nail surface. This film smooths ridges, improves polish adhesion, guards against water damage and helps prevent splitting or chipping. By reinforcing the natural keratin layer it leaves nails looking glossier and feeling stronger through normal wear and daily hand washing.
Who Can Use Bis-Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Diglycol/Ipdi Copolymer
Because this copolymer forms a film on the nail plate rather than penetrating living skin it suits every skin type, even sensitive, as direct contact with facial or body skin is minimal. People with a known allergy to acrylates or urethane ingredients should steer clear since the resin shares similar chemistry that could trigger irritation.
The material is synthetically produced without animal by-products so it is generally considered vegan and vegetarian friendly, though those following a strict lifestyle may want brand confirmation that no animal derived processing aids were used.
Current safety data shows no reproductive or developmental concerns, so products containing this polymer are not expected to pose a risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review nail care products with a healthcare professional to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity. Normal sun exposure routines remain unchanged when using polishes or treatments that rely on this film former.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Bis-Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Diglycol/Ipdi Copolymer vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and cured.
- Allergic contact dermatitis: Redness, itching or swelling around the nail folds in individuals sensitive to acrylates or urethanes
- Mild nail plate dehydration: Repeated use of strong polish removers needed to take off the film can leave nails temporarily dry or brittle
- Yellow staining: Darkly pigmented polishes that cling tightly to the polymer may discolor the nail surface after long wear
- Respiratory irritation: In salon settings inhaling fumes from uncured product can cause throat or nasal discomfort, especially in poorly ventilated rooms
If any of these effects occur stop use at once and consult a medical professional for advice.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
This polymer forms a hard film that sits on the nail plate and is removed with polish remover rather than rinsing onto facial skin. Because it is a large, non-penetrating molecule with virtually no skin contact it has no realistic chance of clogging pores. For that reason it earns a solid non-comedogenic score of zero.
Suitable for acne-prone users, as any exposure to facial pores is negligible.
Only if spilled or wiped onto facial skin while wet could it potentially trap oil, but normal cleansing would remove it before it hardens so the risk remains minimal.
Summary
Bis-Dicaprolactone Ethoxyacrylate Diglycol/IPDI Copolymer is a tailor-made film former that smooths ridges, boosts adherence, shields against water and helps keep polish from chipping. It achieves these perks by cross-linking into a flexible yet tough layer that bonds tightly to the keratin surface.
You will not find it in every nail formula yet it has carved out a loyal spot in many long-wear lacquers, hybrid gels and strengtheners thanks to its balance of bend and durability.
Current data shows it to be low in irritation risk, non-comedogenic and free of major health concerns. As with any new cosmetic though, give products containing it a quick patch test to be sure your skin agrees.