Polyester-5 is a film-forming and viscosity-controlling agent popularly used in makeup and hair styling products. It forms a clear, flexible film on skin, hair, or lashes - increasing water and smudge resistance. It thickens formulas and gives products a rich texture and a smooth glide. Additionally, it helps disperse hydrophobic ingredients into aqueous systems. Polyester-5 is commonly found in makeup setting sprays, mascaras, and hair fixatives. It can also be used in lotions and creams where transfer resistance is desired. This ingredient is safe for use in cosmetics and has low restrictions. However, staying within the recommended concentrations is necessary. Overall, Polyester-5 is a good choice for enhancing both functionality and aesthetics of beauty products.
Products with POLYESTER-5
With samples available
Eastman AQ™ 48 Ultra Polymer
by Eastman
Eastman AQ™ 55S Polymer
by Eastman
Eastman AQ™ 38S Polymer
by Eastman
What is POLYESTER-5 used for?
- Film forming - Polyester-5 creates a thin, even layer on the surface, enhancing the long-wear performance of cosmetics. It also improves water resistance, smudge resistance, and transfer resistance. Moreover, the film is comfortable and lightweight, making it valuable in mascaras, eyeliners, and foundations.
- Viscosity controlling - Polyester-5 enhances the flow and thickness of water-based formulations - creating stable, consistent textures without heaviness. This also improves a product's compatibility with pigments and actives, ensuring better suspension and preventing separation over time.
- Dispersing - Polyester-5 helps disperse pigments and other insoluble materials in a formulation, stabilizing them and preventing clumping or sedimentation. This results in even color distribution and enhanced performance of cosmetic products.
Origin
Polyester-5 is made by the polycondensation reaction of diols like diethylene glycol and 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol with aromatic diacids or diesters. To impart water-dispersibility, the formulation incorporates a sulfonated monomer - typically 5-sodiosulfoisophthalic acid. Once the molten Polyester-5 is released, it is cooled and solidified into flakes, pellets, or powder. It is standardized and purified for use in cosmetics. Polyester-5 appears as a slightly transparent off-white substance in its raw form. Its chemical formula is C28H38O16S.
What does POLYESTER-5 do in a formulation?
FILM FORMING|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLINGSafety Profile
Polyester-5 is a safe ingredient for use in cosmetics when formulated within recommended concentrations. Owing to its large molecular size, it does not penetrate the skin - significantly reducing any risks of side effects. Even though it is compatible with most skin types, patch tests must be performed prior to full application. Additionally, Polyester-5 is not readily biodegradable and contributes to environmental pollution due to its long-term persistence.
POLYESTER-5 alternatives
POLYESTER-5 technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Solubility | Dispersible in water; insoluble in oil |