Hydrogenated Styrene/Isoprene Copolymer
Hydrogenated Styrene/Isoprene Copolymer is a synthetic polymer used in UK beauty products to thicken, stabilise and improve the texture of formulas. You’ll most often find it in lipsticks, lip glosses, mascaras and long-wear foundations where it helps create a smooth, flexible film.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare this ingredient acts as a viscosity-increasing agent and film former. Once applied it creates a supple, breathable film on the skin or lips that helps pigments adhere evenly, prevents feathering and improves the overall wear time of the product without feeling tight or heavy.
Key benefits
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Helps lipstick and lip gloss stay put
- Prevents colour bleeding or feathering
- Enhances long-wear performance of makeup
- Gives a smooth, even finish on lips and skin
- Stabilises emulsions in hybrid skincare-makeup products
Best for
all skin types, normal skin, combination skin, oily skin
Where it comes from
This ingredient is fully synthetic. It is created by polymerising styrene and isoprene (derived from petroleum) followed by hydrogenation to stabilise the molecule.