What Is Peg-2 Laurdimonium Bromide Nylon-6 Crosspolymer?
Peg-2 Laurdimonium Bromide Nylon-6 Crosspolymer is a lab made blend of two main parts: PEG-2 laurdimonium bromide, a moisture attracting molecule, and Nylon-6, a fine plastic powder known for strength and flexibility. The two are joined together then lightly crosslinked with toluene isocyanate, creating a three-dimensional network that feels silky and forms a thin film on skin.
Researchers first explored this type of hybrid polymer in the late 1990s when brands wanted one ingredient that could hold water, smooth skin and add a soft feel without heavy silicones. Chemists start with Nylon-6 pellets, react them with PEG-2 laurdimonium bromide, then add a small amount of toluene isocyanate so the chains link up. The finished powder is washed, dried and milled into a fine ingredient that disperses easily in water or light oils.
You will usually spot this crosspolymer in hydrating face masks, gel moisturizers, anti aging creams, soothing after-sun products, primers and light lotions aimed at boosting moisture while leaving a soft matte finish.
Peg-2 Laurdimonium Bromide Nylon-6 Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is chosen because it performs several helpful jobs in one shot
- Humectant – draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface so formulas feel instantly hydrating and help lessen the look of dryness
- Skin conditioning – leaves a thin breathable film that smooths rough patches improves slip and gives skin a soft velvety touch
- Skin protecting – forms a light barrier that defends against everyday pollutants and helps lock in the moisture that the humectant action pulls up
Who Can Use Peg-2 Laurdimonium Bromide Nylon-6 Crosspolymer
This crosspolymer suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily because it hydrates without a greasy feel and forms a breathable, lightweight film. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well, though anyone with a known allergy to quaternary ammonium compounds or nylon derivatives should proceed cautiously since those groups are part of its makeup.
The ingredient is fully synthetic with no animal sourced components, so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Cruelty status depends on the finished brand’s policies rather than the polymer itself.
No data indicate a specific risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is classed as low systemically absorbed and non endocrine active, yet this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should confirm any skincare choice with a qualified health professional first.
Peg-2 Laurdimonium Bromide Nylon-6 Crosspolymer does not make skin more sensitive to the sun, so it can be used morning or night without altering sunscreen needs.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg-2 Laurdimonium Bromide Nylon-6 Crosspolymer differ from person to person. The points below list potential issues but most users will not notice any negatives when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation or temporary redness on very reactive complexions
- Brief stinging when applied to freshly shaved or exfoliated skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to quaternary ammonium compounds
- Eye irritation if the product drifts into the eye area before it sets
- Rare pore clogging in those with highly acne prone skin when used in dense cream bases
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a medical professional if irritation persists.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Peg-2 Laurdimonium Bromide Nylon-6 Crosspolymer sits on the skin as a lightweight breathable film and has a large molecular size that keeps it on the surface rather than sinking into pores which limits its clogging potential. It also comes in low percentages in most formulas. A small number of users with very oily congested skin may notice issues if the polymer is blended into rich occlusive creams, which bumps the score slightly above zero.
Overall it is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Remember that a product’s full recipe, the amount used and your personal skin condition have a bigger impact on pore blockage than this single ingredient alone.
Summary
Peg-2 Laurdimonium Bromide Nylon-6 Crosspolymer is a multitasking lab made polymer that draws water to the skin, smooths texture and creates a thin protective shield. The PEG portion acts as a humectant pulling in moisture, the nylon backbone provides a silky feel and structure, and the light crosslinking lets the ingredient form a flexible mesh that helps lock hydration in place and defend against daily pollutants.
It is not a household name like hyaluronic acid or dimethicone so you will mainly find it in select hydrating masks, gel moisturizers and primers where brands want a soft matte finish without heavy silicones. Formulators appreciate its versatility but it remains a niche add-on rather than a headline ingredient.
Current data show the polymer is low risk, non sensitizing for most users and not systemically absorbed. Still, every skin is unique so give any new product a quick patch test to make sure it plays nicely with your complexion.