What Is Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer?
Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer is a synthetic ingredient made by linking adipic acid with diglycol through a controlled chemical reaction that turns the two small molecules into a larger three-dimensional network. Adipic acid is most often produced from petroleum sources, though newer processes sometimes come from fermented plant sugars, while diglycol is a type of glycol also made from petrochemical feedstocks. When chemists combine them they form a clear, flexible polymer that behaves like a soft mesh on the skin.
The ingredient appeared in cosmetics in the late 1990s as brands searched for lightweight film formers that could improve wear time without the heavy feel of older resins. By adjusting the ratio of the two starting materials manufacturers can tailor the final texture so it spreads easily then sets to a smooth finish.
To manufacture it, the raw acids and glycols are mixed in reactors with small amounts of catalyst and heat. Water that forms during the reaction is removed so the chains keep linking until they reach the desired size. The resulting polymer is cooled, milled into a fine powder or dispersed in water or glycerin, then filtered and quality-checked before shipment.
You are most likely to see Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer in long-wear foundations, primers, BB creams, tinted moisturizers, peel-off masks, sunscreens, hair styling gels and sometimes in under-eye patches or sheet masks where a flexible film is helpful.
Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves a single purpose in personal care formulas and that purpose brings several practical perks.
As a film former it creates an invisible, breathable layer on skin or hair that locks other ingredients in place. This film helps makeup resist smudging and fading, keeps sunscreen evenly distributed, adds a slight tightening feel that can blur fine lines, boosts water resistance and can cut down on tackiness in leave-on treatments. The light, flexible nature of the polymer means products still feel comfortable instead of stiff or heavy.
Who Can Use Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer
This polymer is generally considered friendly to all skin types. Dry and normal complexions appreciate the light seal it creates to keep moisture in while oily or combination skin benefits from its weightless feel that does not add greasiness. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it is inert and fragrance free, though anyone with a known allergy to polyesters should take caution.
The ingredient is synthetic and made entirely from petrochemical or fermented plant feedstocks with no animal-derived steps so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Current safety data show no reproductive toxicity therefore products that contain Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer are typically viewed as safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing users should clear any skincare routine with their physician to be sure.
The polymer does not absorb ultraviolet light or make skin more reactive to the sun so it is not linked to photosensitivity. It also plays well with most active ingredients because it is chemically stable and does not alter pH.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to the topical use of Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues yet they remain uncommon when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to polyester-type resins
- Temporary tight feeling especially on very dry skin
- Clogged pores if heavy makeup layers are not thoroughly removed
- Eye irritation if the product migrates into the eye area
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 — Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer is a large, non-oily polymer that sits on the surface of skin instead of absorbing into pores, so it rarely provokes breakouts. Its mesh-like film can trap residue if layers of makeup are not cleansed away, which is why it does not score a perfect zero. Overall it is considered suitable for acne-prone or congested skin.
Because this polymer is often paired with silicones, pigments or waxes in long-wear formulas, the finished product’s overall comedogenicity will depend on the entire ingredient deck rather than the crosspolymer alone.
Summary
Adipic Acid/Diglycol Crosspolymer is a lightweight film former that locks actives and pigments in place, adds water resistance, reduces tackiness and gives makeup a smoother longer-lasting finish by creating an invisible flexible mesh on skin or hair. It turns up mainly in long-wear foundations, primers and peel-off masks so while it is not the most famous ingredient it has a steady presence in performance-focused products.
Safety reviews show low irritation potential, no known systemic risks and minimal chance of clogging pores when properly removed. As with any new cosmetic, patch testing a small area first is a smart habit to make sure your skin stays happy.