Ingredient deep-dive
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene: Is It a Microplastic?
Synthetic hydrocarbon polymer used as a shine-giving emollient in lip gloss and foundations, a common petroleum-derived swap for mineral oil.
Where it appears
- Lip gloss and liquid lipstick (for shine)
- Foundation and primer
- Cream blush
- Hair-shine serums
Regulatory status (2026)
European Union
Permitted; liquid polymer, not a solid microparticle, so outside the microbead restriction.
United States
No federal restriction.
Cleaner alternatives
- Jojoba oil
- Squalane
- Castor-seed oil for gloss
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