PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Film-forming agent in the waterless phase of a cosmetic formula | Helps create gel textures that spread easily
EWG Safety Score
What Is PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer?
PVM/MA decadiene crosspolymer is a complex synthetic polymer whose primary role is film-forming agent in the waterless phase of a cosmetic formula. This ingredient also helps thicken gels and in higher amounts can provide hold to hairstyling products.
According to UL Prospector (a hub of cosmetic ingredient suppliers of PVM/MA decadiene crosspolymer), it comes as a white powder in its raw material form and its “shear-thinning properties allow strong gels with quick break for processing, spreading and dispensing.”
It is typically used in amounts of 2% or less, as these amounts have proven to be non-sensitizing on human skin. The very large molecular size of PVM/MA decadiene crosspolymer keeps it firmly on skin’s surface.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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UL Propector, Accessed September 2021, ePublication [https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/Cleaners/Detail/872/641933/Stabileze-QM-Polymer]
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BioMed Research International, November 2013, pages 1–10 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1155/2013/181634]
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International Journal of Toxicology, October 2011, pages 128S–144S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581811407934]
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