VP/Hexadecene Copolymer is a chemical compound, a synthetic polymer commonly used in various cosmetic and personal care products. 

Chemical Composition and Structure

VP/Hexadecene Copolymer is a copolymer formed from the polymerization of vinylpyrrolidone (VP) and hexadecene. Vinylpyrrolidone is a hydrophilic monomer, while hexadecene is a hydrophobic monomer. The combination of these two monomers results in a copolymer with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics, giving it versatile properties.

Physical Properties

The VP/Hexadecene Copolymer typically appears as a clear or slightly yellowish liquid or solid, depending on its specific formulation. It is soluble in organic solvents and compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients. The copolymer is known for its ability to form flexible, durable films that provide water resistance and improve the longevity of products on the skin or hair.

Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process

• Preparation of reagents. The main raw materials include vinylpyrrolidone (VP) and hexadecene.
• Polymerization. The vinylpyrrolidone and hexadecene are mixed in a polymerization reactor.
• Initiation of polymerization. A polymerization initiator, such as benzoyl peroxide, is added to the monomer mixture. The reactor is heated to a controlled temperature to start the polymerization reaction.
• Polymerization reaction. The vinylpyrrolidone and hexadecene react to form the VP/Hexadecene copolymer. The reaction is maintained at controlled temperature and pressure to ensure complete and uniform polymerization.
• Termination of polymerization. Once the polymerization is complete, a polymerization terminator, such as hydroxylamine, is added to stop the reaction.
• Cooling. The reaction mixture is cooled to room temperature.
• Precipitation of the copolymer. The copolymer is precipitated by adding the reaction mixture to a nonsolvent such as ethanol or acetone.
• Filtration. The resulting suspension is filtered to separate the solid copolymer from the solution.
• Washing. The copolymer is washed with a pure solvent such as ethanol to remove any soluble impurities.
• Drying. The washed copolymer is dried at controlled temperatures to remove residual moisture and obtain a dry powder.
• Grinding. The dried copolymer is ground to obtain a fine and uniform powder.
• Classification. The dried powder is classified to ensure a uniform particle size. This step may involve sieving or the use of air classifiers.
• Quality control. The VP/Hexadecene copolymer undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure it meets standards for purity, safety, and functionality. These tests include chemical analysis and spectroscopy.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics 

VP/Hexadecene Copolymer is a synthetic polymer used predominantly in cosmetic products for its film-forming and binding properties. It is especially valued for its ability to enhance the durability and performance of cosmetic products, in addition to providing a uniform finish.

Cosmetics - 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.
• Viscosity control agent. It controls and adapts, Increasing or decreasing, viscosity to the required level for optimal chemical and physical stability of the product and dosage in gels, suspensions, emulsions, solutions. 
• Dispersing agent - Non surfactant. Ingredient that can change and stabilize the surface characteristics of the suspension, covering the surface. It also works as a hair fixative.

CAS   32440-50-9   63231-81-2

Cosmetic Applications

Film Formation. This copolymer is capable of forming a thin, comfortable film on the skin or hair, improving the longevity of cosmetic products such as foundations, mascaras, and lipsticks.

Water Resistance. It helps make cosmetic products water-resistant, ideal for long-wear makeup formulas that need to withstand sweat and moisture.

Texture Improvement. It contributes to improving the texture of products, making them easier to apply and distribute evenly on the skin or hair.

Binding Agents. It acts as a binder to hold ingredients together in cosmetic formulations, preventing separation and improving the cohesion of the finished product.

Versatile Applications. Used in a wide range of products, from skin care to hair care and makeup, thanks to its versatility and effectiveness.

Other Applications

Hair Care Products. Employed in hair sprays, gels, and other styling products to enhance hold and manageability without weighing down the hair.

Sun Care Products. Used in sunscreens and lotions to increase water resistance and improve the formation of a protective film on the skin.

References__________________________________________________________________________

Cole, C. A., Vollhardt, J., & Mendrok, C. (2009). Formulation and stability of sunscreen products. Clinical guide to sunscreens and photoprotection, 39-51.

Abstract. From the earliest use of mud and clays to protect skin from the sun’s burning rays, today’s sunscreen products have come a long way in efficacy, convenience, and elegance. In the late 1930s, Dr. Franz Greiter, a Swiss chemist and amateur mountain climber, was annoyed by being frequently sunburned at high altitudes and started compounding sunscreening lotions in his laboratory to protect himself from sunburn. This led ultimately to the founding of the Greiter company, which marketed products under the Piz Buin1 brand. Veterans from the Pacific Theater may remember the “red veterinary petrolatum” provided in life rafts and survival kits as a sunscreen, a heavy greasy ointment containing an undefined UV-absorbing contaminant, which was quite substantive against water exposure, for obvious reasons. Unfortunately, the UV protection was more limited compared with its wash resistance. This compound and improved sunscreen formulations are credited to Dr. Benjamin Greene, a Florida physician, who needed a sunscreen to protect his balding pate. His discoveries resulted in the brand known today as Coppertone1

Yadav, S., Issa, N., Streuli, D., McMullen, R., & Fares, H. (2011). Luster measurements of lips treated with lipstick formulations. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 62(3), 317.