Polyurethane-26
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: PU-26
Synthetic
Occlusive
Skin Conditioner
Barrier Support
Hair Care
Not Clean
Polyurethane-26 is a complex polymer that is formed by the reaction of Polyperfluoroethoxymethoxy Difluorohydroxyethyl Ether and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to form a prepolymer. The prepolymer is further reacted with 3-diethylamino-1,2-propanediol followed by the capping of any residual isocyanate groups with 2-ethyl-1-hexanol. The resulting polymer is neutralized with acetic acid
CAS #
328389-90-8
Form
Powder
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Hair Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Skin Protecting
Helps rebuild and strengthen your skin barrier — the invisible shield that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Essential after over-exfoliating or harsh weather.
Nourishes & Protects
Traditional Use
Synthetic polymer developed for cosmetic use as a film-forming agent and binder. Created to provide flexible, durable coatings in cosmetic formulations.
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