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HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE

Last update on Mar 27, 2026

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is quite multi-functional and is used liberally in the cosmetic industry. This ingredient is basically a synthetic oil that acts as a preservative to increase the shelf life of the products. What’s more, it also gives the skin a glowy and dewy look. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is an emollient that leaves the surface smooth and soft. Further, being waterproof, it makes the product last longer on the surface that it is applied on. The chemical formula of Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is C₃₃H₆₈.

CAS Number: 40921-86-6 / 61693-08-1Chem/IUPAC Name: Propene, 2-methyl-, homopolymerEINECS/ELINCS No: COSING REF No: 76643

Products with HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE

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Bentone Gel® LIP V

by Elementis

INCI: HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE | DISTEARDIMONIUM HECTORITE | PROPYLENE CARBONATE

Sustainable option
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Bentone Gel® PIO V

by Elementis

INCI: HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE | DISTEARDIMONIUM HECTORITE | PROPYLENE CARBONATE

Sustainable option
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FANCOL® POLYISO® 450-CG

by Elementis

INCI: HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE

Sustainable option
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What is HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE used for?

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene has a range of functions in the cosmetic industry and is therefore used in a wide variety of products ranging from skin care to makeup to hair care products.

Skin care: It is a great emollient that clears the skin and leaves it feeling smooth and soft. This ingredient restores the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and keeping it hydrated. It is responsible for improving the texture of the formulations. It also acts as a preservative to help increase the shelf life of the products. Further, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene enhances the appearance of the skin by imparting a glowing and dewy look.
Hair care: It helps maximize moisturization on the scalp while leaving the hair shinier and silkier. It is a great conditioning agent that aids in de-frizzing and detangling the hair.

Origin

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is a synthetic homopolymer of isobutene. Thus, it is obtained by the polymerization of isobutene in the labs. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene can replace silicone oils and minerals in the formulations as it is healthier and more beneficial.

What does HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE do in a formulation?

DETANGLING|

EMOLLIENT|

HAIR CONDITIONING|

MOISTURISING|

PRESERVATIVE

Safety Profile

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is safe for skin and hair. It has been approved for use as it does not have any major side effects, even if accidentally ingested. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene does not clog pores or cause acne as it is non-comedogenic. However, a patch test is recommended for people with highly sensitive skin. Also, since Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is not derived from any animal sources - it is completely vegan.