Ingredient deep-dive

Polyurethane-2: Is It a Microplastic?

Medium concernMicroplastic polymer

Numbered polyurethane film-former, used where a flexible, water-resistant plastic film is wanted on skin or lashes.

Where it appears

Waterproof mascara
Long-wear foundation
Peel-off masks
Nail products

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted as a film-former; particle forms restricted.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

Shellac
Cellulose derivatives
Acacia gum

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Polyurethane-2, common questions

Is Polyurethane-2 a microplastic?

Yes: it is classified as a synthetic polymer. Numbered polyurethane film-former, used where a flexible, water-resistant plastic film is wanted on skin or lashes.

Is Polyurethane-2 banned?

EU: Permitted as a film-former; particle forms restricted. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of Polyurethane-2?

Cleaner alternatives include: Shellac; Cellulose derivatives; Acacia gum.

What products contain Polyurethane-2?

Commonly found in: Waterproof mascara; Long-wear foundation; Peel-off masks; Nail products.

Related ingredients

Polyethylene

Microplastic polymer · High concern

Solid plastic polymer. The EU restricted intentionally added microplastics in rinse-off cosmetics from October 2023, including polyethylene microbeads.

Polypropylene

Microplastic polymer · High concern

Solid plastic polymer, often used in scrubs, mascara fibers, and exfoliants.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

Microplastic polymer · High concern

The same plastic used in bottles, here as glitter or shimmer in cosmetics.

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)

Microplastic polymer · High concern

Solid acrylic plastic used as a microbead filler. Banned in EU rinse-off products since 2023.