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Film Former

POLYSTYRENE

CAS 9003-53-6
32

Safety score · 0–100

Caution

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

A plastic polymer used as filler or texturizer. EU REACH restriction on microplastics in cosmetics is phasing it out; persistent environmental pollutant with residual styrene concerns.

Skin benefits

  • Provides texture and bulk in some formulations
  • Inert film-forming polymer

Known concerns

  • Microplastic — EU banned intentionally added microplastics from 2023 (rinse-off) and rolling deadlines for leave-on
  • Persistent environmental pollutant
  • Residual styrene monomer (IARC Group 2A) possible
  • Not biodegradable

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related film formers

32
ACETYLENEDIUREA/FORMALDEHYDE/TOSYLAMIDE CROSSPOLYMER
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ACRYLATES/PERFLUOROHEXYLETHYL METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER
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EPOXY RESIN-2
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HEMA ACETOACETATE
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PEG-4 TRIMETHYLOLPROPANE TRIACRYLATE
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PERFLUOROCAPRYLYL TRIETHOXYSILYLETHYL METHICONE
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PERFLUORONONYLETHYL DIMETHICONE/METHICONE COPOLYMER
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PERFLUORONONYLETHYL PEG-8 PHENYLISOPROPYL DIMETHICONE
Film Former

Check your shelf

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.