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Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer

What Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer is & what it does

Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer is a synthetic film-forming polymer made by crosslinking trimethylpentanediol, adipic acid, and glycerin. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it acts as a film former and texture modifier, helping spread the product evenly and leave a smooth, flexible finish on the skin. A notable property is that it can improve the water resistance and wear of a film, which is useful in long-lasting and sunscreen products.

What does Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer do in skincare?

It works as a film former and texture agent. When the product dries it leaves a thin, flexible film on the skin that smooths the feel, helps the product spread evenly, and can improve wear and water resistance. This makes it useful in long-lasting makeup and sunscreen formulas.

Is Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer safe?

It is a synthetic film-forming polymer used in cosmetics, and large polymers like this tend to stay on the skin surface rather than being absorbed. It is generally considered low-risk for topical use, though anyone with very reactive skin can patch test first. For specific concerns, check the full product label.

Is Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer natural or synthetic?

It is synthetic. It is made by chemically crosslinking three building blocks, trimethylpentanediol, adipic acid, and glycerin, into a single polymer. The glycerin portion can be plant-derived, but the finished crosspolymer is a manufactured material.

Sunscreens with Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer

We rate 40 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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