Rate My SPF

Hydrogenated Poly

What Hydrogenated Poly is & what it does

Hydrogenated Poly is a partial INCI name that refers to a hydrogenated polymer, most often a hydrogenated polyolefin oil such as Hydrogenated Polyisobutene or Hydrogenated Polydecene. In skincare and sunscreen formulas these materials act as lightweight emollients that give a smooth, silky glide and added water resistance. The hydrogenation step makes them stable and resistant to oxidation. Because the full name is truncated, the precise grade should be confirmed from the product label.

What does Hydrogenated Poly do in skincare?

Hydrogenated Poly is a shortened name for a hydrogenated polymer, usually a hydrogenated polyolefin oil such as Hydrogenated Polyisobutene or Hydrogenated Polydecene. These act as lightweight emollients that give a smooth, silky glide and added water resistance. Because the name is truncated, check the product label for the exact grade.

Is Hydrogenated Poly natural or synthetic?

Hydrogenated polymers of this kind are synthetic, made by building up a polyolefin and then adding hydrogen to stabilize it. They are not plant oils. The hydrogenation step makes them resistant to oxidation and gives a consistent, stable feel.

Is Hydrogenated Poly comedogenic?

Hydrogenated polyolefin emollients are generally light in feel and often used in non-greasy textures, but the precise material here is unclear because the name is truncated. Effects on pores also depend on the full formula and your skin. Patch testing a new product is sensible if you are prone to breakouts.

Sunscreens with Hydrogenated Poly

We rate 21 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

← All ingredients