VP/VA Copolymer is a synthetic polymer made by polymerizing vinyl pyrrolidone (VP) and vinyl acetate (VA). This copolymer is used in a variety of personal care and cosmetic products due to its film-forming properties, which provide texture, hold, and stability.
Chemical Composition and Structure
Components: Vinyl pyrrolidone (VP) and vinyl acetate (VA) are the two main monomers used in the copolymer.
Chemical Formula: Varies based on the ratio of VP to VA in the copolymer.
Molecular Weight: High, varies depending on the degree of polymerization and the ratio of monomers.
Physical Properties
Appearance: Typically appears as a white to off-white powder or solid.
Odor: Generally neutral.
Solubility: Soluble in water and some organic solvents.
pH: Neutral.
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions, with good resistance to heat and oxidation.
Production Process
Polymerization: Vinyl pyrrolidone and vinyl acetate are polymerized in a controlled environment to form the copolymer. The ratio of VP to VA can be adjusted based on the desired properties of the final product.
Purification: The copolymer is purified to remove any unreacted monomers and by-products.
Formulation: The purified copolymer is then incorporated into cosmetic formulations as a film-forming agent.
Applications
Cosmetics: Used in hair styling products (e.g., gels, sprays) and skin care products (e.g., sunscreens, foundations) to provide hold, texture, and film-forming properties.
Personal Care Products: Included in facial cleansers, moisturizers, and body lotions for its stabilizing and binding effects.
Pharmaceuticals: Occasionally used in topical formulations for its film-forming and binding properties.
Food: Not commonly used in food applications.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
VP/VA Copolymer is generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used according to established guidelines. It should be sourced responsibly and produced in a manner that minimizes environmental impact. It is important to ensure that it is free from harmful contaminants and chemicals.
INCI Functions:
Binder agent. Ingredient that is used in cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical products as an anti-caking agent with the function of making the product in which it is incorporated silky, compact and homogenous. The binder, either natural such as mucilage, gums and starches or chemical, may be in the form of a powder or liquid.
Film-forming agent. It produces, upon application, a very thin continuous film with an optimal balance of cohesion, adhesion and stickiness on skin, hair or nails to counteract or limit damage from external phenomena such as chemicals, UV rays and pollution.
Hair fixative. This ingredient has the ability to create, with its protective film, stiffness and hold in the hair, and also has the ability to form, with its hydrophilic and elastic properties, bonds between the hair fibres, to keep the hair in a particular shape for a certain time. In short, it allows physical control of the hairstyle.
Synonyms:
CAS: 25086-89-9 EC number 607-540-1 UNII D9C330MD8B