Nylon-12
Nylon-12 is a silky, fine white powder used in many UK beauty products to improve texture and finish. It gives a soft-focus, matte effect that helps makeup and skincare feel smoother and look more flawless. Shoppers often find it in primers, foundations, powders and sunscreens.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, Nylon-12 functions as a texture enhancer and absorbent agent. Its spherical particles create a ball-bearing effect that reduces friction, allowing products to glide effortlessly over the skin while providing a velvety, matte finish. It also helps control excess oil and minimises the appearance of fine lines and pores without drying the skin.
Key benefits
- Creates a smooth, silky feel on the skin
- Provides a soft-focus, matte finish
- Helps absorb excess sebum
- Improves product spreadability and blendability
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and pores
- Enhances the wear and longevity of makeup
Best for
oily skin, combination skin, acne-prone skin, mature skin
Where it comes from
Nylon-12 is a synthetic polymer produced from petroleum-derived raw materials. It is not obtained from any plant, seed, flower or mineral source.
Products with Nylon-12
Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain Nylon-12 than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.