What Is Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/Ipdi Copolymer?
Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/Ipdi Copolymer is a man-made ingredient created by linking together small units of glycerin, hydroxystearic acid derived from castor or other vegetable oils, and a specialty molecule known as IPDI, short for isophorone diisocyanate. The result is a large, flexible polymer that carries an average of seven ethylene oxide units, giving it a light, water-friendly character. First explored in the late 1990s as chemists searched for gentler ways to form soft, breathable films on skin, this polymer soon found a home in cosmetics thanks to its silky feel and reliable performance.
Production involves two main steps. First, glycerin is reacted with ethylene oxide to build the Glycereth-7 part. Separately, hydroxystearic acid is turned into an ester that can connect to IPDI. Finally, these pieces are blended in a controlled setting where temperature and pH are tightly watched so the chains grow to just the right length. The finished material is a creamy liquid that dissolves well in water or alcohol, making it easy for formulators to use.
You will most often see Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/Ipdi Copolymer in leave-on products like facial moisturizers, lightweight lotions, anti-aging serums and makeup primers. It is also popular in sheet masks, hair styling creams and long-wear sunscreens where a flexible film helps hold the formula in place without feeling sticky.
Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/Ipdi Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one main job in cosmetics.
Film forming: When the product dries on skin or hair, the polymer sets into a thin, invisible layer that locks in moisture, improves spreadability and boosts wear time. This film can smooth uneven texture, reduce water loss and help active ingredients stay put longer, which translates to a softer feel, extended hydration and better overall performance of the product.
Who Can Use Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/Ipdi Copolymer
This polymer is considered friendly for all main skin types. Dry and normal skin benefit from the light film that slows water loss. Oily and combination skin usually tolerate it well because the finish is non greasy and breathable. Sensitive skin also tends to do fine with it although anyone prone to allergies should always scan the full ingredient list for other triggers in the formula.
The raw materials come from vegetable sources then undergo synthetic processing so the finished ingredient is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
No data link the polymer to hormonal effects or developmental concerns. It is generally viewed as low risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and expectant or nursing mothers should show any skincare product to their doctor before use to be safe.
Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/Ipdi Copolymer does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with common sunscreen filters or photosensitizing actives.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/Ipdi Copolymer differ from person to person. The points below cover possible reactions yet most users experience none when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Transient stinging or mild redness in very sensitive skin
- Contact irritation if used in a product with high alcohol or fragrance content
- Rare allergic response in individuals sensitized to isocyanate residues
- Occlusive buildup that may feel heavy on extremely oily skin when layered with multiple film formers
If you notice any persistent discomfort discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 – The polymer is water-miscible, produces a breathable film and carries little to no fatty residue, so it is very unlikely to clog pores. Trace amounts of hydroxystearate segments are locked inside the polymer network, which limits their interaction with sebum, keeping the rating low.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most formulations.
Because the final product can vary in thickness depending on the other ingredients used, extremely heavy or multiple-layer routines may still feel occlusive to some users, so pay attention to the overall formula texture.
Summary
Glycereth-7 Hydroxystearate/Ipdi Copolymer is mainly a film former that sets into a thin, flexible layer to seal in moisture, smooth skin and help actives stay put for longer. Its water-friendly structure lets it spread easily without greasiness, making it a quiet workhorse in lightweight moisturizers, primers and long-wear sunscreens.
The ingredient is moderately popular: not as common as silicone elastomers yet appreciated by formulators looking for a vegan, water-dispersible alternative with a soft feel.
Current safety data class it as low risk, with irritation or allergy reported only rarely. As with any new skincare product, perform a patch test before full use to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.