Hydrogenated Polydicyclopentadiene

What is Hydrogenated Polydicyclopentadiene?

Hydrogenated polydicyclopentadiene is a synthetic hydrocarbon resin derived from the polymerization of dicyclopentadiene, a byproduct of petroleum refining, followed by hydrogenation for enhanced stability. This cyclic olefin polymer appears as a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid or solid, commonly incorporated into makeup, hair styling, and nail formulations. It functions by creating cohesive bonds between particles in powders and pastes, improving structural integrity during manufacturing and use. In film-forming applications, it deposits thin, elastic layers that resist cracking, promote even wear, and facilitate adhesion to skin, hair, or nails without stiffness. Its non-volatile nature ensures long-lasting performance in anhydrous products like lipsticks, mascaras, and polishes, contributing to smoother texture and durability.

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:

Binder

Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.

Depilating agent

Chemically breaks down hair’s keratin structure (commonly via thiol chemistry) to enable painless hair removal at the skin surface in depilatory creams.

Plasticizer

Improves flexibility and reduces brittleness of films (e.g., nail coatings, hair sprays), helping prevent cracking and enhancing smooth application.

Binding

Provides cohesion by helping ingredients stick together, improving the strength and integrity of pressed powders, tablets, or solid bars.

Benefits

Strengthens product structure for better integrity and longevity during use.

Provides flexibility to films, reducing brittleness and improving application smoothness.

Enhances cohesion in solids, aiding uniform distribution and wear.

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 long-wear makeup that maintains shape and adhesion.	Those preferring fully natural or plant-based formulations.
Users of nail coatings desiring crack-resistant, flexible finishes.	Individuals with rare sensitivities to synthetic polymers.
People with hair styling products needing hold without rigidity.	Users wanting minimalistic products without film-formers.

Safety Notes

Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations by safety assessments.
Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hydrogenated Polydicyclopentadiene

What products contain it?

Common in lipsticks, mascaras, nail polishes, and hair sprays for binding and flexibility.

Is it irritating?

Low irritation potential based on cosmetic safety data.

Safe for daily use?

Yes, at typical levels in reviewed formulations.