C30-38 Olefin/Isopropyl Maleate/Ma Copolymer

What is C30-38 Olefin/Isopropyl Maleate/Ma Copolymer?

C30-38 Olefin/Isopropyl Maleate/MA Copolymer is a synthetic polymer derived from long-chain C30-38 olefins, isopropyl maleate, and maleic anhydride monomers. This high-molecular-weight copolymer is commonly incorporated into rinse-off cosmetic formulations such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. It operates by reducing surface tension to facilitate dirt and oil removal during cleansing, forming protective films at oil-water interfaces to stabilize emulsions, and modifying rheological properties to achieve optimal product thickness and spreadability. Its amphiphilic structure enables effective interaction with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic components, ensuring consistent performance in multi-phase systems like micellar waters and creamy lotions.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Supports thorough yet gentle cleansing by lowering surface tension for better removal of impurities.

Promotes emulsion stability, resulting in smooth, uniform textures in lotions and washes.

Enhances product viscosity for improved control, spreadability, and user-friendly application.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking non-comedogenic cleansers for daily use.
Those with known allergies to synthetic polymers.
People with normal to oily skin needing stable emulsion-based products.
People experiencing irritation from maleic anhydride-derived ingredients.
Users of shampoos and body washes desiring consistent thickness and performance.
Individuals preferring entirely natural or minimalist formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by independent safety assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, suitable for blemish-prone skin without pore-clogging risk.

Frequently Asked Questions about C30-38 Olefin/Isopropyl Maleate/Ma Copolymer

Is C30-38 Olefin/Isopropyl Maleate/MA Copolymer comedogenic?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.

What products commonly contain this ingredient?

Found in shampoos, body washes, and emulsion-based cleansers for cleansing and stabilization.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Low hazard rating indicates general safety, though patch testing is advised for sensitivities.