VP/Hexadecene Copolymer

VP/hexadecene copolymer is a synthetic film-forming polymer used in cosmetic and personal care products. It creates flexible, water-resistant layers that improve adhesion, reduce transfer, and extend wear in makeup, suncare, and hair styling.
Like this ingredient?

Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
Forms a flexible, water-resistant film that helps makeup last longer.
Category
Tone/Texture
Type
Film Former

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Good

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Improves longevity through heat and humidity, keeping makeup and hairstyles in place longer, and reduces smudging and fading for a more dependable finish.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often used in long-wear foundations, mascaras, liquid liners, SPF gels, and styling creams to boost wear time and transfer resistance.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Generally regarded as low irritation and inert in leave-on and rinse-off products. Rare sensitization is possible with film-forming polymers. No notable regulatory restrictions are common.

Is VP/Hexadecene Copolymer a Good Ingredient?

It rates Good as a dependable film former that improves wear and transfer resistance across color and hair products, though it offers minimal direct skincare effect beyond texture and longevity.