Polybutene
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Hydrogenated Polybutene
Synthetic polymer with a thick, viscous texture | Has emollient properties for skin and lips
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Polybutene?
Polybutene is a clear, colorless polymer that serves as a texture enhancer and binding agent in cosmetics. Its thick, emollient nature also allows it to moisturize and help prevent water loss on skin and lips.
Polybutene is often used in lip glosses and balms not only for its texture-enhancing and lubricating abilities but also because its slight tackiness allows such products to last longer, holding up to eating, drinking and lip-licking better than many other emollients.
The large molecular size of polybutene keeps it from penetrating past the surface of skin or lips. It is considered safe as used in cosmetics (multiple assessments have been done since 1976). Use levels of polybutene in cosmetics have a wide range, from 0.1–82% in leave-on products and 8–20% in rinse-off formulations.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, September/October 2020, pages 59S–90S; and Supplement 4, 2008, pages 83-106 [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1091581820952385]
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Lipids and Cosmetics, Volume 27, June 2020, pages 1-13 [https://www.ocl-journal.org/articles/ocl/abs/2020/01/ocl200042/ocl200042.html]
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Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, November 2019, pages 1-14 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/14683083/2019/33/11]
From the Clinic
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