What Is Bis-Hema Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/Ipdi Copolymer?
Bis-HEMA Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/IPDI Copolymer is a modern film-forming ingredient created from a blend of plant-derived diols and a specialty isocyanate. The process starts with 1,5-pentanediol and hexanediol reacting with dimethyl carbonate to make a soft, flexible carbonate backbone. This prepolymer is then linked with isophorone diisocyanate, a cyclic molecule valued for stability, to build a durable urethane chain. Finally, the ends are capped with HEMA (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) so the finished polymer disperses smoothly in water or solvent systems. The result is a clear, breathable film that hugs the skin or hair without feeling tight.
Urethane polymers first became popular in nail coatings and industrial finishes for their toughness and gloss. As cosmetic formulators searched for gentler yet high-performance options, they adapted these chemistries for skin care and color cosmetics. Bis-HEMA Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/IPDI Copolymer is part of this new wave, offering the strength of traditional polyurethanes but crafted from lighter diols for a softer touch.
You’ll most often spot this ingredient in long-wear makeup, liquid foundations, tinted moisturizers, smudge-resistant mascaras, peel-off masks and certain anti-aging serums where a flexible film helps active ingredients stay put and boosts product longevity.
Bis-Hema Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/Ipdi Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient’s value comes from its role as a film former. When applied, it lays down an invisible network that anchors pigments, hydrators or treatment agents to the skin or hair. The resulting film resists sweat and oil so makeup lasts longer, prevents cracking in peel-off masks and can even lend a light-reflective finish that makes skin look smoother.
Who Can Use Bis-Hema Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/Ipdi CopolymerThis film former is considered suitable for most skin types including normal, dry, combination and oily. Its lightweight polymer network lets skin breathe so it rarely feels heavy on oilier complexions, while the flexible finish avoids the tightness that can bother dry or mature skin. Extremely sensitive or eczema-prone users should proceed with caution since any synthetic film can sometimes trap heat or rub against compromised barriers, increasing the chance of irritation.
The starting materials are plant-derived diols and laboratory-made isocyanate so no animal components are involved. That makes products relying on this polymer generally acceptable for both vegans and vegetarians, provided the full formula contains no other animal-sourced ingredients.
Current data show no specific reproductive or developmental concerns linked to topical use. Absorption through intact skin is minimal because the polymer is high molecular weight and forms an external film. Still, this is not medical advice. Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding should show the product to a qualified healthcare professional before incorporating it, just to be safe.
Bis-HEMA Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/IPDI Copolymer does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more reactive to sunlight. It is also stable across typical cosmetic pH ranges and does not interact negatively with common actives like vitamin C or retinoids. As with any eye-area product, avoid getting the raw ingredient directly into the eyes, although its use in mascaras shows it can be worn safely around them when properly formulated.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Bis-Hema Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/Ipdi Copolymer vary from person to person. The points below cover possible issues yet they are unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is included at normal cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin redness or itching in individuals sensitive to urethane polymers
- Transient stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Eye irritation or watering if the raw formula accidentally enters the eye
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis triggered by trace unreacted monomers
- Temporary clogged pores in those extremely prone to comedones when heavy layers are not fully cleansed
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Bis-HEMA Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/IPDI Copolymer has a large molecular size that stays on the surface and forms a breathable film rather than sinking into pores. It is also used at modest levels in most formulas, so the chance of it physically blocking follicular openings is low. A rating of 1 acknowledges that any film former can trap debris if layered very thickly or not removed well, yet for the vast majority of users it will not actively provoke breakouts.
Acne-prone individuals generally tolerate this ingredient, provided they fully cleanse makeup or mask residues at the end of the day.
The overall clogging risk depends more on the total formula and your cleansing habits than on this polymer itself.
Summary
Bis-HEMA Poly(Pentylene/Hexamethylene Carbonate)/IPDI Copolymer is a modern film former that locks pigments, hydrators and actives in place by creating a clear flexible layer on skin or hair. Its urethane backbone supplies durability while the carbonate segments keep the film soft so products resist sweat and movement without feeling stiff.
Although not yet a household name, it is quietly gaining traction in long-wear foundations, smudge-proof mascaras and peel-off masks where traditional resins can feel heavy or brittle.
Current research and industry data rate it as low-risk for irritation, sensitization and systemic absorption. As with any new cosmetic ingredient, try a small patch first to be sure your skin agrees with it, especially if you have a history of sensitivities.