Polypropylene
What Polypropylene is & what it does
Polypropylene is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer made from propylene monomers. In cosmetics and sunscreens it is used in solid form as an opacifying agent, a bulking filler, or as fine particles that add texture and slip to a formula. It is a chemically stable, water-insoluble material that does not contribute active skincare benefits.
Is Polypropylene safe in skincare?
Polypropylene is widely used in cosmetics and is generally regarded as a stable, inert material on the skin. It is a solid synthetic polymer that sits on the surface rather than penetrating, which is why it is commonly used as a filler or texturizing particle. As with any product, suitability can vary by individual, so patch testing a new formula is sensible.
Is Polypropylene comedogenic or does it clog pores?
Polypropylene is an inert plastic polymer and is not typically flagged as a notably pore-clogging ingredient. Because it is used in small amounts as a particle or filler, its effect on pores is generally considered low. If you are acne-prone, you may still want to monitor how a specific formula suits your skin.
Is Polypropylene natural or synthetic?
Polypropylene is fully synthetic. It is a man-made thermoplastic polymer produced from propylene, a petrochemical-derived monomer. It does not occur naturally in plants or minerals.
Sunscreens with Polypropylene
We rate 7 sunscreens that contain it:
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First Aid Beauty Weightless Liquid Mineral Spf 30
73/100
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Di Morelli SPF 35 With Vitamin E
68/100
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Supergoop! City Sunscreen Serum Spf 30
67/100
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Solid & Striped Face Sunscreen Sunscreen-Meets-Serum Spf-30
62/100
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Matte For Men Complete Face And Head Care Lotion With SPF 30
49/100
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Pupa Milano Made To Last Total Comfort Foundation SPF 30
49/100
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Deborah Milano Foundation Extra Mat Perfection SPF 20
49/100