What Is Butyl Polydimethylsiloxyl Ethylene/Propylene/Vinylnorbornene Copolymer?
Butyl Polydimethylsiloxyl Ethylene/Propylene/Vinylnorbornene Copolymer is a silicone based material created when butyl polydimethylsiloxane reacts with a rubbery copolymer made from ethylene, propylene and vinylnorbornene. The resulting hybrid marries the silky feel of silicones with the flexible film forming character of modern synthetic rubbers. Introduced in the late 1990s as cosmetic chemists searched for longer lasting textures, the ingredient quickly found a place in formulas that needed a lightweight yet substantial feel. Production involves combining the silicone and the ethylene-propylene-vinylnorbornene (EPDM-VNB) copolymer under controlled heat and pressure so the two materials bond at key points along their chains. The finished polymer is then milled into a fine powder or dispersed into a carrier fluid ready for use. You are most likely to spot it in long wear foundations, transfer resistant lipsticks, mascara, primers, sunscreens and certain leave-on hair products where a smooth glide and dependable staying power are top priorities.
Butyl Polydimethylsiloxyl Ethylene/Propylene/Vinylnorbornene Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized mainly for one job: viscosity control. By thickening oil and silicone phases without adding weight it helps chemists fine tune the feel of a product so it spreads easily then sets into a flexible, breathable film. The result is makeup that resists smudging, skincare that feels cushiony not greasy and hair products that coat strands evenly for better frizz management.
Who Can Use Butyl Polydimethylsiloxyl Ethylene/Propylene/Vinylnorbornene CopolymerThis polymer suits most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry because it sits on the surface forming a breathable film without clogging pores or pulling moisture from the skin. Extremely sensitive or highly reactive skin may prefer a simpler formula as the synthetic rubber portion could feel occlusive to some but overall intolerance is rare.
Because the ingredient is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived components it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety assessments show no reproductive toxicity so products containing this polymer are generally viewed as safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should clear any new skincare or makeup with a healthcare professional first to be on the safe side.
The polymer does not make skin more prone to sunburn and has no known photosensitising properties. It can even improve the wear time of sunscreens by helping them stay put. No other major usage caveats are noted.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Butyl Polydimethylsiloxyl Ethylene/Propylene/Vinylnorbornene Copolymer differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet unlikely when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished cosmetic product.
- Mild skin irritation such as slight redness or itching in very sensitive individuals
- Transient eye stinging if a product containing the polymer is accidentally rubbed into the eyes
- Build-up on hair leading to a weighed-down feel if cleansing is inadequate
- Contact dermatitis triggered by a separate component in the same formula, with the polymer sometimes assumed to be the culprit
If any discomfort or persistent reaction occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 Butyl Polydimethylsiloxyl Ethylene/Propylene/Vinylnorbornene Copolymer is a large, inert silicone-rubber hybrid that sits on top of the skin rather than seeping into pores. Its molecules are too bulky to block follicular openings so breakouts linked directly to this polymer are rare. The rating is slightly above zero only because any occlusive film, however breathable, might trap existing oil or debris if cleansing habits are poor. Overall it is considered safe for people prone to acne and congestion.
Because the polymer is usually used at low levels alongside lightweight carriers it does not raise the overall comedogenicity of most formulas in which it appears. Proper makeup removal keeps the risk minimal.
Summary
Butyl Polydimethylsiloxyl Ethylene/Propylene/Vinylnorbornene Copolymer acts primarily as a viscosity controller and film former. By thickening oil and silicone phases it gives creams, foundations and hair products a smooth glide then dries to a flexible mesh that boosts wear time and resists smudging. The ingredient is moderately popular, turning up most often in long wear makeup and high performance sunscreens while remaining less common in basic skincare.
Current data show the polymer to be non irritating, non sensitising and essentially non comedogenic for the majority of users. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a fresh product on a small area before full application, especially if your skin is sensitive or reactive.