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Butylphthalimide

What Butylphthalimide is & what it does

Butylphthalimide is a synthetic compound from the phthalimide family, the N-butyl derivative of phthalimide. In cosmetic formulas it is typically used as a plasticizer that helps film-forming ingredients spread evenly and stay flexible, which is useful in products such as nail polish and certain leave-on coatings. It is an oil-soluble, fully synthetic material rather than a plant extract.

What does Butylphthalimide do in skincare?

Butylphthalimide is mainly used as a plasticizer, helping film-forming ingredients spread evenly and stay flexible. It is most commonly seen in products like nail polish rather than in typical face or sunscreen creams.

Is Butylphthalimide natural or synthetic?

It is fully synthetic. It is a laboratory-made compound from the phthalimide family and is not derived from plant or animal sources.

Is Butylphthalimide vegan?

As a synthetic compound with no animal-derived inputs, it is generally considered suitable for vegan formulas. The vegan status of any finished product still depends on its complete ingredient list.

Sunscreens with Butylphthalimide

We rate 7 sunscreens that contain it:

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