Allowed in EU

Polyester-16

A cosmetic ingredient used as film forming, surfactant - cleansing in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.

What is it?

Polyester-16 is the sodium salt of a copolymer of dimethyl sodiosulfoisophthalic acid, dimethyl terephthalate, ethylene glycol and isophthalic acid monomers

What does it do?

Polyester-16 is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:

  • Film forming

    forms a thin continuous film on skin, hair, or nails — used in long-wear makeup, sunscreens, and hairsprays

  • Surfactant - cleansing

    surfactant whose primary cosmetic role is cleansing — the active workhorse in soaps, shampoos, and body washes

EU regulatory status

Polyester-16 is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.

Frequently asked questions

What is Polyester-16?

Polyester-16 is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Polyester-16 is the sodium salt of a copolymer of dimethyl sodiosulfoisophthalic acid, dimethyl terephthalate, ethylene glycol and isophthalic acid monomers

Is Polyester-16 allowed in cosmetics in the EU?

Yes. Polyester-16 is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.

What does Polyester-16 do in cosmetic products?

Polyester-16 is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: film forming, surfactant - cleansing.

What is the CAS number of Polyester-16?

The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Polyester-16 is 69847-57-0.

Related ingredients

Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 25/11/2010