Vinyl Caprolactam/PVP/Dimethylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer

AKA: Vinyl Caprolactam/PVP/DMAEMA Copolymer

Synthetic

Occlusive

Clean

Vinyl Caprolactam/PVP/Dimethylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer is a cosmetic ingredient. Rated low hazard by EWG. Assessed as safe by the CIR.

Form

Liquid

State

Solid

Functions

Film Forming

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

Viscosity Controlling

Traditional Use

This modern synthetic copolymer was developed in the late 20th century as a multifunctional ingredient designed to provide film-forming, conditioning, and styling properties in hair care and personal care products.

EWG

CIR

Safe as used

Pregnancy

Caution

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

Caution

The paper trail

🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →

⚖️Regulatory0 listings

🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →

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

Verified Jun 2026

Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR