Polypentene

Synthetic

Occlusive

Not Clean

Polypentene is a cosmetic ingredient used as film forming.

Solubility less than 1 mg/mL at 70 °F (NTP, 1992)

CAS #

9078-70-0

Form

Powder

State

N-pentane appears as a clear colorless liquid with a petroleum-like odor. Flash point 57 °F. Boiling point 97 °F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Hence floats on water. Vapors are heavie

Functions

Film Forming

Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.

Creates Protective Barrier

Traditional Use

A synthetic polymer derived from petroleum olefins, developed in the mid-20th century. Used in cosmetics as an emollient and texture enhancer, replacing some functions of traditional mineral oils.

EWG

CIR

Safe as used

Pregnancy

Yes

CIR Safety Findings

Not a Sensitizer

medical-approval

all-shades-safe

Regulatory Status

USA✔ permitted

EU⚠ restricted

JAPAN⚠ restricted

CANADA⚠ restricted

Regulatory Agencies

EWG CIR FDA EU COSING Health Canada

Skin Types

●all-skin-types

Best For

General

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Yes

The paper trail

🔬Peer-reviewednone on file

⚖️Regulatory1 listing →

🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →

Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.

Verified Jun 2026

Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR