What it is
This ingredient is a copolymer derived from Brassica campestris (rapeseed/canola) oil and Aleurites fordii (tung) oil, two plant oils combined into a polymeric material. In cosmetics it functions as a film former that helps spread other ingredients and create a continuous, even layer on the skin. It is used in mineral and organic sunscreens to improve the cohesiveness and uniformity of the applied film.
Safety & warnings
As a high-molecular-weight oil copolymer used as a film former, it is generally well tolerated. Plant-oil-derived film formers of this type are not typically associated with significant comedogenicity at cosmetic use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Plant-derived but chemically processed. It is produced by reacting and polymerizing rapeseed oil and tung oil to form a copolymer used as a cosmetic film former.
Questions everyone asks
What does this copolymer do in a sunscreen?
It acts as a film former, helping create a smooth, even, cohesive layer of product on the skin.
Is it natural?
It is derived from rapeseed and tung plant oils but is chemically processed into a copolymer, so it is a plant-based, modified ingredient.