4,4'-ISOPROPYLIDENEDIPHENOL/EPICHLOROHYDRIN COPOLYMER

About 4,4'-ISOPROPYLIDENEDIPHENOL/EPICHLOROHYDRIN COPOLYMER

A film-forming epoxy polymer derived from bisphenol A (BPA) and epichlorohydrin, also known as bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) polymer.

Detailed Analysis

This polymer is derived from the reaction of 4,4'-isopropylidenediphenol (bisphenol A, BPA — CAS 80-05-7) with epichlorohydrin (CAS 106-89-8), producing epoxy-type polymers. BPA is classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under EU REACH due to its endocrine-disrupting properties (reproductive toxicity, Category 1B). While the polymer-bound BPA significantly reduces bioavailability compared to free BPA, residual monomer traces must be controlled. Epichlorohydrin is classified as a Category 1B carcinogen and mutagen. The resulting copolymer is not individually restricted in EU Annexes II/III for cosmetic use, but the parental substances and their health classifications (SVHC, CMR) represent significant regulatory risk. EU has restricted BPA in cosmetic toys (Regulation 374/2014) and it is a candidate for wider restriction.

What It Does

Skin Benefits

• ✓ excellent film-forming and adhesive properties
• ✓ provides durable coating for nail and skin applications

Known Concerns

• ⚠ BPA component is a known endocrine disruptor — classified as SVHC under EU REACH (Category 1B reproductive toxin)
• ⚠ epichlorohydrin monomer is a Category 1B carcinogen and mutagen
• ⚠ residual BPA and epichlorohydrin monomers must be controlled and monitored
• ⚠ BPA increasingly restricted across EU product categories; regulatory risk is elevated

References