What Is Behenyl Methacrylate/Perfluorooctylethyl Methacrylate Copolymer?
Behenyl Methacrylate/Perfluorooctylethyl Methacrylate Copolymer is a man-made ingredient created by linking, or polymerizing, two distinct building blocks: behenyl methacrylate, which is derived from long-chain fatty alcohols found in natural oils, and perfluorooctylethyl methacrylate, a fluorinated unit prized for its water-repelling abilities. When these monomers join together they form a lightweight plastic-like film that is both flexible and highly durable.
The cosmetic industry began exploring fluorinated copolymers in the late 1990s as brands looked for ways to give products better wear time without a heavy feel. Chemists discovered that coupling a fatty chain such as behenyl with a fluorinated chain produced a balanced polymer that could spread smoothly on skin while resisting sweat, humidity and oil. The result was quickly adopted in color cosmetics and later in skincare.
Production usually involves an emulsion or suspension polymerization process carried out in large reactors under controlled heat and pressure. Once the reaction is complete the polymer is filtered, dried and milled into a fine powder or dispersed in a carrier fluid, ready to be blended into finished formulas.
You will most often see this copolymer in long-wear foundations, lipsticks, mascaras, eyeliners, primers, sunscreens, hair styling creams, makeup setting sprays and certain moisturizers that promise a smooth velvety finish.
Behenyl Methacrylate/Perfluorooctylethyl Methacrylate Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient adds performance-boosting traits that help products look and feel better on the skin.
- Film forming – Creates an invisible flexible layer that locks pigments in place, improves water and smudge resistance and helps active ingredients stay on the surface long enough to do their job
- Viscosity controlling – Gives formulas the right thickness so creams do not drip, serums glide smoothly and sprays lay down an even coat without feeling sticky
Who Can Use Behenyl Methacrylate/Perfluorooctylethyl Methacrylate Copolymer
This copolymer is generally suitable for all skin types. Its lightweight film helps control excess oil so it works well for oily and combination skin while the soft flexible layer it leaves behind is comfortable on normal and dry skin. Those with very sensitive or compromised skin can typically use it too although they should keep an eye out for any redness or stinging since fluorinated ingredients may be a little more reactive for some people.
The material is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived components so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Available safety data show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new products to a routine.
The polymer does not absorb UV light or make skin more prone to sunburn so it is not linked to photosensitivity. It also plays well with most other common cosmetic ingredients and does not interfere with actives like retinol or vitamin C.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Behenyl Methacrylate/Perfluorooctylethyl Methacrylate Copolymer vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation – tingling itching or slight redness can appear in individuals who are sensitive to fluorinated compounds
- Contact allergy – rare cases of allergic dermatitis have been reported with similar acrylic polymers leading to rash or swelling
- Eye discomfort – if a product containing the copolymer gets into the eyes it may cause temporary burning or watering until rinsed out
- Build-up on hair shafts – in styling products overuse can leave hair feeling coated or heavy although this is easily removed with a clarifying shampoo
If any of the above effects occur discontinue use and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
This low score reflects the fact that Behenyl Methacrylate/Perfluorooctylethyl Methacrylate Copolymer is a large high-molecular-weight polymer that sits on top of the skin rather than seeping into pores where blockages occur. It forms a breathable lightweight film without adding heavy oils or waxes that could trap sebum. While any film former has a slim chance of holding debris against the skin, current evidence and user reports show minimal pore-clogging potential.
Suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, though individual experiences can vary.
Extra note: in leave-on makeup the ingredient is usually present at low levels and paired with volatile silicones that evaporate after application further reducing congestion risk.
Summary
Behenyl Methacrylate/Perfluorooctylethyl Methacrylate Copolymer is mainly valued for two things: it builds a flexible film that locks color and actives onto the skin and it fine-tunes a formula’s thickness so products spread evenly and stay put. By combining a fatty chain with a fluorinated chain it delivers long wear water resistance and a smooth soft finish without a heavy feel.
The polymer shows up most often in long-wear foundations lipsticks mascaras and setting sprays so it is popular within those niches but not as widely recognized by the average shopper compared with buzzier ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
Available safety data rate it as low risk with only rare reports of mild irritation or allergy. Still it is smart to patch test any new product that includes this copolymer especially if you have very sensitive or reactive skin.