What Is Polyurea Crosspolymer-7?
Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 is a lab-created polymer that forms when chemists link together building blocks like HDI Isocyanurate Trimer, PEI-116, Trimethylolpropane and Xylene Diisocyanate. During the reaction, the free isocyanate groups connect with water or other sources of nitrogen to create sturdy urea bonds, locking the structure into a three-dimensional network. This crosslinked design gives the ingredient its strength and flexibility.
The technology behind polyurea materials emerged in industrial coatings during the late 1980s. As formulators noticed the smooth protective film these polymers produced, interest grew in adapting them for personal care. Refinement of the chemistry led to cosmetic-grade versions like Polyurea Crosspolymer-7, which meets safety and purity standards required for skin contact.
Production starts with the precise mixing of the monomers in controlled reactors. Temperature, pH and reaction time are carefully managed to avoid unwanted side reactions. Once the polymer reaches the desired molecular weight, it is neutralized, filtered and dried into a fine powder or dispersion that blends easily into finished formulas.
Thanks to its film-forming talent and smooth feel, you will most often spot Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 in products that need a light flexible layer on the skin such as primers, long-wear foundations, setting sprays, sheet masks, leave-on conditioners, anti-pollution creams and color-stay lip products.
Polyurea Crosspolymer-7’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for this ingredient when they want dependable performance without a heavy feel.
Film forming: Once applied, Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 dries into an invisible breathable film. This thin layer helps lock makeup in place, improves water and smudge resistance, reduces transfer onto clothing and shields the skin or hair from environmental stressors like dirt and fine particles. Because the film is flexible it moves with facial expressions preventing cracking or flaking and allowing comfortable wear throughout the day.
Who Can Use Polyurea Crosspolymer-7
Because it forms an ultra-thin breathable film without adding greasiness Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 suits dry, normal, combination and oily skin alike. It is considered non-sensitizing and has a smooth lightweight feel so even sensitive or redness-prone skin usually tolerates it well. There are no reports of the polymer aggravating skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea; however people with known allergies to isocyanates should proceed with caution since trace residues could remain in finished formulas.
The ingredient is fully synthetic with no animal-derived components and no animal testing requirements, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety assessments have not flagged Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 as a concern for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals when used topically at the low percentages found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run all skincare products past a qualified health professional to be on the safe side.
The polymer does not absorb UV light or alter skin photosensitivity, so it will not increase sunburn risk. It plays nicely with common actives such as retinoids, vitamin C and acids and it does not interfere with sunscreen filters or makeup pigments.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 differ from person to person. The points below outline possible side effects which remain uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in professionally formulated products.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness itching or a burning sensation, typically due to individual sensitivity or high use levels
- Contact dermatitis in those allergic to residual isocyanate traces or other formula components
- Temporary eye stinging if a spray or loose powder containing the polymer accidentally gets into the eyes
- Occlusive congestion including clogged pores or small breakouts on very oily skin if layered with multiple heavy film formers
If any discomfort, rash or persistent reaction develops stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 is a large, inert polymer that sits on the surface of skin rather than seeping into pores, so it is unlikely to feed the bacteria or excess oil that spark breakouts. Because it does create a thin film, there is a small chance it could trap existing sebum or debris if layered with rich occlusive products, which is why it does not receive a perfect zero.
Most acne-prone users can comfortably use products containing Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 without seeing an uptick in pimples or blackheads.
Its particle size is far bigger than a pore and it is non-greasy, meaning it rinses away cleanly with regular cleansing, another point in its favor for congested skin types.
Summary
Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 is mainly valued for its film-forming ability that locks makeup in place, boosts water and transfer resistance and offers a light protective veil against pollutants. It achieves this by drying into a flexible breathable mesh that moves with facial expressions while holding pigments and actives where they need to stay.
The polymer is not yet a household name but is gaining traction in long-wear foundations, setting sprays and anti-pollution skincare because it delivers results without a heavy feel.
Current studies and industry reviews rate it as low risk for irritation or clogging when used at the low percentages common in cosmetics. Even so, skin is personal, so performing a quick patch test with any new product containing Polyurea Crosspolymer-7 is a smart precaution.