Ingredient deep-dive
VP/Hexadecene Copolymer: Is It a Microplastic?
Vinylpyrrolidone copolymer used as a film-former and water-resistance aid, notably in sunscreen and long-wear colour.
Where it appears
- Water-resistant sunscreen
- Long-wear lip colour
- Mascara
Regulatory status (2026)
European Union
Permitted as a film-former.
United States
No federal restriction.
Cleaner alternatives
- Plant waxes
- Shellac
- Mineral sunscreen with physical water resistance
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Is VP/Hexadecene Copolymer a microplastic?
Is VP/Hexadecene Copolymer banned?
What can I use instead of VP/Hexadecene Copolymer?
What products contain VP/Hexadecene Copolymer?
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