Polyvinyl Laurate

What is Polyvinyl Laurate?

Polyvinyl laurate is a synthetic homopolymer created through the polymerization of vinyl laurate monomers, where laurate derives from lauric acid, a saturated C12 fatty acid commonly sourced from coconut or palm kernel oil. This clear, viscous resin appears in various cosmetic formulations, particularly in makeup products like lipsticks, mascaras, and nail polishes, as well as hair styling aids. It works by depositing a thin, flexible film on the skin or hair surface upon application and drying, which boosts adhesion of pigments and powders while modifying the product's flow properties for even spreading. Additionally, it aids in binding particulates together, preventing crumbling in solid formats, and stabilizes viscosity to maintain consistency during use and storage. Its non-oily nature ensures it integrates seamlessly into oil-in-water or anhydrous systems without altering sensory feel significantly.

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.

Film former

Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.

Viscosity controlling agent

Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Binding

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

Benefits

Enhances makeup and hair product longevity by forming a durable, transfer-resistant film.

Improves product texture and spreadability through effective viscosity control.

Strengthens solid cosmetics like powders and sticks for better integrity and 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 long-lasting makeup that resists smudging or fading.	Those with rare sensitivities to synthetic polymers or fatty acid esters.
Users of hair styling products needing hold and shine without heaviness.	Individuals preferring entirely natural or plant-based ingredient profiles.
People with acne-prone skin preferring non-comedogenic binding agents.	Users experiencing contact dermatitis from similar polyvinyl compounds.

Safety Notes

Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations based on safety assessments.
Non-comedogenic, unlikely to contribute to pore clogging.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polyvinyl Laurate

What products commonly contain polyvinyl laurate?

Found in lipsticks, mascaras, nail polishes, and hair styling formulations for film-forming and binding.

Is polyvinyl laurate comedogenic?

Rated 0 for comedogenicity, suitable for acne-prone skin without pore-clogging risk.

How does it function in cosmetics?

Forms flexible films for wear resistance, binds ingredients for cohesion, and controls viscosity for smooth texture.