Polyisobutene

Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Clean
Homopolymer of 2-methyl-1 propene
CAS #
9003-27-4
Functions
Binding
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Strengthens Barrier
Antioxidant
Anti-Inflammatory
Creates protective layer
Holds ingredients together
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
Developed as a petroleum-derived synthetic polymer in the mid-20th century. Introduced to cosmetics as a conditioning and film-forming agent to improve texture and wear properties of skincare and color cosmetics.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
ewg-1
medical-approval
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR