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BUTYLENE/ETHYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER

Last update on Nov 25, 2025

Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer is a synthetic “gelling agent” used in cosmetics to enhance the texture of products. It creates a lightweight, velvety softness that feels pleasant on the skin. Additionally, it stabilizes emulsions like creams, lotions, gels, serums, and makeup, preventing them from breaking down over time. Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer can form a breathable film on the skin, holding in moisture and providing protection against environmental stressors. It also improves the water resistance and smudge resistance of products. Overall, Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer is a modern, versatile ingredient that is excellent for long-wear makeup and gel-based personal care.

CAS Number: 68648-89-5Chem/IUPAC Name: Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer EINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 55019

Products with BUTYLENE/ETHYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER

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VERSAGEL® ME 750

by Calumet Specialty Products Partners

INCI: HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE | ETHYLENE/PROPYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER | BUTYLENE/ETHYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER

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VERSAGEL® M 200

by Calumet Specialty Products Partners

INCI: PARAFFINUM LIQUIDUM | ETHYLENE/PROPYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER | BUTYLENE/ETHYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER

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VERSAGEL® MP 750

by Calumet Specialty Products Partners

INCI: ISOPROPYL PALMITATE | ETHYLENE/PROPYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER | BUTYLENE/ETHYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER

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What is BUTYLENE/ETHYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER used for?

Viscosity controlling - Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer increases the viscosity of formulations and gives thin or runny products a smooth, cohesive texture. It is especially useful in lipsticks and balms where controlled thickness is essential. It also prevents separation and maintains product consistency over time.
Texture enhancing - Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer creates a soft and silky texture that improves the way products spread and interact with the skin. By adding a smooth glide, it enhances the overall sensory experience of creams, balms, and makeup.
Film forming - Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer forms a flexible, lightweight film that enhances product wear and performance. It helps hold pigments in place, boosts transfer resistance, and supports long-lasting adhesion. It also offers smudge resistance in makeup and water resistance in sunscreens.
Skin protecting - The breathable barrier formed by Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer on the skin helps shield the surface from environmental stressors as well. It also reduces moisture loss and minimizes dryness.

Origin

Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer is made using a controlled polymerization process in which Butylene, Ethylene, and Styrene are chemically linked together. The raw materials are first purified and then reacted in a set sequence, such that strength (from styrene) and elasticity (from butylene and ethylene) are balanced. The resulting ingredient - Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer - is purified and processed into pellets or powder for cosmetic use. The chemical formula of Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer is C₁₃H₁₆.

What does BUTYLENE/ETHYLENE/STYRENE COPOLYMER do in a formulation?

VISCOSITY CONTROLLING|

FILM FORMING|

SKIN PROTECTING

Safety Profile

Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. Due to its large molecular size, it stays on the surface and does not penetrate the skin - significantly reducing any risks of irritation or sensitization. It is compatible with most skin types; however, patch tests must be performed prior to full application. Environmentally, Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer is non-biodegradable and does not align with “clean-beauty” or “plastic-free” products.