murphyPhthalic Anhydride/Trimellitic Anhydride/Glycols Copolymer
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Modified Polyester Resin
Synthetic
Occlusive
Clean
OriginDerived from phthalic anhydride, trimellitic anhydride, and glycol monomers, all synthetic aromatic compounds. Synthesized through polycondensation reaction of these monomers to form a crosslinked polymer film-forming agent.
1,3-Isobenzofurandione, polymer with 5-carboxy-1,3-isobenzofurandione, 1,2-ethanediol and 2,2-dimethyl-1,3-propanediol
Form
Liquid
State
Solid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Creates Protective Barrier
Controls Viscosity
Anti-Aging Benefits
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Creates protective layer
Controls product thickness
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe with qualifications (safe in nail products only; insufficient data for all other cosmetic formulations)
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing / plus 1 case report (CIR 701)
Not a Skin Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 701)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on1.8–12%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2020
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR