Description:
Polybutene is a synthetic, high-viscosity hydrocarbon polymer commonly used in cosmetics and personal-care formulations. It is a clear, colorless to pale-yellow, oily liquid with excellent spreading, adhesion, and emollient properties.
Main benefits
- Emollient: Gives skin and lips a smooth, soft feel.
- Gloss enhancer: Provides high shine, especially in lip gloss and lip products.
- Adhesion: Helps pigments and other ingredients adhere to the skin/lips.
- Texture modifier: Improves the richness, slip, and consistency of formulations.
- Moisture retention: Helps reduce moisture loss and leaves a protective, conditioning film.
- Water resistance: Can improve the staying power and resistance of some cosmetic products.
Typical usage rate
The dosage depends strongly on the grade/viscosity of Polybutene and the type of formulation:
| Application | Typical usage |
|---|---|
| Lip gloss / lip products | 5–30% |
| Lipstick | 2–15% |
| Skin-care creams/balms | 1–10% |
| Makeup products | 2–15% |
| Hair-care products | 1–5% |