Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a fluorinated synthetic polymer used as a film former and texture additive. It adds glide, cuts friction, and creates smooth, long-wearing finishes in makeup and skincare formulations.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A slip agent that gives makeup a smooth, long-wearing finish.
Category
Tone/Texture
Type
Film Former

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Provides a silky, cushioned feel and can reduce tugging during application. Evidence for skincare benefits is limited; it mainly improves texture and wear of makeup.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in primers, pressed powders, long-wear foundations, and anti-chafe balms to improve slip and create a more even cosmetic finish.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Considered chemically inert and typically nonirritating on the skin; patch test if very sensitive. Avoid inhaling dust from loose powders during application. No widely established cosmetic concentration limits are noted.

Is Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) a Good Ingredient?

Fair rating as it improves slip and wear but provides minimal direct skincare benefit, and loose powders could pose inhalation concerns during application. While usually nonirritating on intact skin, its benefit-to-risk balance is modest for skincare outcomes.

Products with Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

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