What Is Polyurethane-60?
Polyurethane-60 is a synthetic polymer created through a carefully controlled reaction of several building blocks, including saturated methylene diphenyldiisocyanate, dimethyl aminopropylamine, isopropylidenediphenoxypropanol, and dimethylcarbonate-1,6-hexanediol. These components are first blended to form a prepolymer, which is then dispersed in water with the help of dimethylethanolamine. Finally, ethylenediamine is added to extend the polymer chains, giving the material its finished structure. The result is a water-dispersible polyurethane that performs well in cosmetic settings.
Polyurethanes have been used for decades in coatings and adhesives. As formulators looked for flexible film formers that could tolerate water and mild solvents, they adapted certain polyurethane chemistries for personal care. Polyurethane-60 emerged from that wave of innovation, offering nail care products a balance of strength, clarity, and comfort on the nail plate.
In cosmetics you will most often find Polyurethane-60 in clear nail polishes, base coats, strengtheners, and treatment serums aimed at improving nail durability. Its ability to form a thin yet resilient film also makes it useful in some specialty top coats where chip resistance is a key selling point.
Polyurethane-60’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In beauty formulas Polyurethane-60 serves a single but important role.
As a nail conditioning agent, it forms a flexible, breathable film over the nail surface. This film helps reinforce natural keratin, reducing splitting and peeling while providing a smooth base for color or gloss layers. Because the polymer disperses in water, manufacturers can create low-odor, solvent-reduced formulas that are gentler on both nails and cuticles.
Who Can Use Polyurethane-60
Because Polyurethane-60 is designed to sit on top of the nail plate rather than penetrate living skin it is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive or easily irritated hands. The polymer is noncomedogenic so it will not clog pores around the cuticle area and is fragrance free by nature, which further reduces the odds of reactivity.
The ingredient is fully synthetic with no animal-derived components, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Manufacturers occasionally combine it with proteins or waxes of animal origin so anyone following a strict plant-based lifestyle should still scan the full ingredient list of the final product.
Current safety data show no systemic absorption, so Polyurethane-60 is unlikely to pose a risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review any nail product they plan to use with their physician to be safe.
Polyurethane-60 does not cause photosensitivity and will not make nails or surrounding skin more prone to sun damage. It is also compatible with common nail polish removers and UV or LED curing systems used in gel manicures.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Polyurethane-60 can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues yet these reactions are uncommon when the ingredient is properly incorporated into a finished cosmetic product.
- Mild skin irritation around the nail folds, especially on already chapped or broken skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to isocyanate-derived polymers
- Nail plate dryness or temporary brittleness if the product is overused without moisturizing breaks
- Slight yellowing of clear polish films after prolonged exposure to strong cleaning chemicals
If any discomfort or visible reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Polyurethane-60 is a large water-dispersible polymer that stays on the hard nail surface rather than soaking into skin or pores. Because it does not mix with skin oils or sit inside follicles it has no realistic pathway to clog pores, earning it the lowest possible comedogenic score.
That makes it perfectly fine for people who struggle with acne or frequent breakouts.
One thing to note is that some nail products pair Polyurethane-60 with richer oils or waxes that may raise the overall pore-clogging risk, so always look at the full ingredient list if you are highly breakout-prone.
Summary
Polyurethane-60 is a film-forming nail conditioner that adds a flexible, clear shield over the nail plate. The shield cuts down on peeling and splitting while letting manufacturers create low-odor water-based polishes and treatments.
It is not the most talked-about ingredient in beauty circles, but brands focused on breathable or treatment-style manicures use it for its reliable strength and comfort.
Current data show it is safe for all skin types, including during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic a short patch test is a smart extra step before regular use.