Butylene/Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer

TL;DR. This ingredient is a synthetic film-former and rheology modifier, used to thicken oils, build gel texture, and improve water resistance or payoff in balms, sticks, sunscreens, and color cosmetics.

What does Butylene/Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer do in a cosmetic formula?

This ingredient is a synthetic film-former and rheology modifier, used to thicken oils, build gel texture, and improve water resistance or payoff in balms, sticks, sunscreens, and color cosmetics.

Is Butylene/Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer clean?

It is generally low-irritation because the molecule is large and not readily skin-penetrating. Clean-beauty friction comes from its petrochemical origin, limited biodegradability, and possible scrutiny under standards that restrict persistent synthetic polymers.

Is Butylene/Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer sustainable?

This material is typically petroleum-derived and is not readily biodegradable. Its environmental profile is mainly shaped by persistence after use rather than high acute aquatic concern.

Is Butylene/Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer COSMOS-approved?

It is not permitted under COSMOS-natural or COSMOS-organic standards because it is a synthetic petrochemical polymer. Its Green Chemistry fit is weak due to nonrenewable feedstocks and poor biodegradability, although it is chemically stable and used at relatively low levels.

How does Butylene/Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer work chemically?

This compound is a high-molecular-weight hydrocarbon copolymer with flexible saturated segments and harder aromatic segments, giving it elastomeric film and oil-gelling behavior. Typical use levels are often around 0.5% to 10%, with higher levels in anhydrous sticks or gels, and it is pH-insensitive because it functions primarily in the oil phase.

Last updated 2026-05-16