Polyethylene
A synthetic polymer. In older scrubs it served as abrasive microbeads; in sticks and balms it gives structure. Microbeads in rinse-off products are the microplastic that the US, the UK and several EU countries banned over water pollution.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
Frequently asked questions
Is Polyethylene safe during pregnancy?
Polyethylene is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polyethylene for?
Polyethylene suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Polyethylene and what does it do in cosmetics?
A synthetic polymer.
What's the INCI name for Polyethylene?
The INCI name is Polyethylene. It may also appear as: PE.
See Polyethylene in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
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