What Is Dimethylol Butanoic Acid/Ipdi/Ppg-17/Ppg-34 Copolymer?
Dimethylol Butanoic Acid/Ipdi/Ppg-17/Ppg-34 Copolymer is a lab-made polymer created by reacting dimethylol butanoic acid, isophorone diisocyanate and two grades of polypropylene glycol (PPG-17 and PPG-34). The result is a flexible network of repeating units that can spread into a thin, even film on the skin or hair. First developed for industrial coatings that needed long-lasting yet comfortable films, chemists soon noticed its smooth feel and water resistance, leading to its adoption in cosmetics during the late 1990s. Production involves controlled polymerization in closed reactors where each component is blended under heat, then neutralized and purified to remove any unreacted monomers. In beauty products you will most often find it in long-wear foundations, liquid eyeliners, mascaras, setting sprays, anti-frizz hair serums, sheet masks and certain anti-aging creams that promise extended wear or resistance to humidity and sweat.
Dimethylol Butanoic Acid/Ipdi/Ppg-17/Ppg-34 Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
The ingredient’s main role in cosmetics is straightforward yet valuable.
As a film forming agent it creates a breathable, flexible layer that locks active ingredients in place, boosts water and transfer resistance and helps makeup stay put for longer hours. This invisible film also smooths the skin’s surface so products glide on evenly, giving a softer finish and helping hair products fight humidity-induced frizz.
Who Can Use Dimethylol Butanoic Acid/Ipdi/Ppg-17/Ppg-34 Copolymer
This polymer is considered suitable for all skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry because it forms a lightweight breathable film rather than an occlusive layer. Sensitive or highly reactive skin can generally tolerate it as well since it has no known fragrance or dye components, though anyone with a history of allergies to polyurethane-type ingredients should be cautious. The molecule itself is synthetic and contains no animal-derived materials so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data do not flag any specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at the low percentages found in cosmetics. Still, this is not medical advice and those who are pregnant or nursing should show any product they plan to use to their healthcare provider to be sure it fits their individual needs.
The copolymer does not absorb UV light or increase sun sensitivity so it is not considered photosensitising. It is also odorless and has no known interactions with common actives like retinol or alpha hydroxy acids, making it easy to slot into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Dimethylol Butanoic Acid/Ipdi/Ppg-17/Ppg-34 Copolymer vary from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects that could occur in rare cases. When the ingredient is properly formulated most users will not experience these issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness itching or stinging
- Allergic contact dermatitis triggered by residual isocyanate traces
- Temporary clogged pores or breakouts if very thick layers are applied repeatedly without thorough cleansing
- Eye irritation if the raw ingredient accidentally contacts the eye before it is fully incorporated into a finished product
If any adverse reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
This polymer is a large, water-dispersible molecule that dries down to a lightweight breathable film rather than leaving an oily residue. It sits on top of the skin and is usually removed with normal cleansing so it poses minimal risk of blocking pores. For this reason its comedogenic potential is judged to be very low.
Acne-prone or breakout-prone users can typically use products containing this ingredient without extra concern.
Formulas that combine the copolymer with heavy oils or waxes may raise overall pore-clogging risk, but that would be due to the other ingredients, not the copolymer itself.
Summary
Dimethylol Butanoic Acid/Ipdi/Ppg-17/Ppg-34 Copolymer is a synthetic film former that lays down a flexible invisible layer to keep makeup or active ingredients in place, improve water and sweat resistance and give skin and hair a smoother feel. It performs these roles by polymerizing into a uniform mesh that clings lightly to the surface yet remains permeable to air and moisture.
While not a household name it is a quiet workhorse in long-wear foundations, mascaras and anti-frizz sprays where durability matters, so you might be using it without even realizing.
Current safety data show a low rate of irritation or sensitization when used at cosmetic levels. Still, every skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that lists this copolymer and monitor how your skin responds.