VP/VA Copolymer
Film-forming polymer. Common in hair products as a fixative for sprays and styling, and in colour cosmetics (mascara, eyeliner) for longevity. In skincare it provides a lightweight film and improves after-feel. Combined with silicones and other film-formers it raises the risk of pilling.
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, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
VP/VA Copolymer (vinylpyrrolidone/vinyl acetate copolymer) is a synthetic film-forming polymer. Water- and alcohol-soluble. Used as a fixative in hair styling, as a film-former in colour cosmetics, and rarely in skincare formulas. Mechanism. On drying it forms a thin flexible film on skin or hair. In shampoos and sprays it holds the style; in mascara and eyeliner it stops the product from flaking. In skincare it improves after-feel and cream longevity. Where applied. Hair sprays and mousses (Schwarzkopf got2b, Pantene Pro-V, L'Oréal Elnett), mascara (Maybelline Lash Sensational, L'Oréal Telescopic), eyeliners and long-wear lip products. In skincare it is rare – La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Brillance, ISDIN Foto Ultra Spray. Evidence base. Functional ingredient. CIR confirmed the safety of the whole VP/VA copolymer group in 2017. Safety. Non-sensitising, non-comedogenic. Safe in topical use. Pilling. The main practical drawback is the risk of pilling when layered with silicones or other film-formers. If a sunscreen with VP/VA copolymer goes on top of a dimethicone cream, you may see balls on the skin. Solution – let each layer set for 1-2 minutes and do not rub. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Topical systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal.
Frequently asked questions
Is VP/VA Copolymer safe during pregnancy?
VP/VA Copolymer is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is VP/VA Copolymer for?
VP/VA Copolymer suits: normal, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is VP/VA Copolymer and what does it do in cosmetics?
Film-forming polymer.
What's the INCI name for VP/VA Copolymer?
The INCI name is VP/VA Copolymer. It may also appear as: Vinylpyrrolidone/Vinyl Acetate Copolymer, PVP/VA Copolymer.
See VP/VA Copolymer 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
Other functional ingredients
Xanthan Gum, Zea Mays Starch, Zinc Coceth Sulfate, Zinc Ricinoleate, Red 17 (CI 26100), Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, PEG/PPG-17/18 Dimethicone, Sodium Caproyl Prolinate
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