FANCOL® POLYISO® 250-CG by Elementis is what modern cosmetic formulation looks like when you upgrade from mineral oil — a clear, colorless Hydrogenated Polyisobutene that delivers everything mineral oil promises (lubrication, emolliency, carrier performance) while leaving behind the heaviness, greasiness, and comedogenic concerns that have made mineral oil increasingly difficult to justify in premium formulations.
As a long-chain aliphatic hydrocarbon, it forms a light, flexible protective film on skin and hair that provides genuine waterproofing performance — the kind that keeps makeup in place through humidity, sweat, and water exposure. Its exceptional spreadability and silky, non-greasy skin feel make it a sensory upgrade in any formulation it enters, from a lightweight serum to a high-gloss lip product. Stable across a wide pH range (4–9) and compatible with a broad range of cosmetic ingredients, it’s a versatile, high-performance emollient that earns its place in the formulator’s toolkit across skincare, makeup, and haircare alike.
Key Benefits
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Waterproofing Performance – forms a light protective film that provides long-lasting water and sweat resistance
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Silky, Lightweight Feel – non-greasy, smooth skin feel that enhances product elegance and glide
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Premium Mineral Oil Alternative – superior sensorial profile, non-comedogenic, and skin-friendly
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Shine & Gloss Enhancement – boosts shine and visual appeal in lip, face, and hair products
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Broad pH Stability – stable and effective across pH 4–9, compatible with most cosmetic systems
Applications
- Lipsticks, lip gloss & lip balms
- Foundations, eye makeup & face products
- Skincare — creams, lotions & sunscreens
- Haircare — conditioning, styling & shine products
- Personal care — shaving products & antiperspirants
Recommended Usage Levels
| Application |
Usage Level |
| Skincare |
2% – 10% |
| Makeup |
3% – 15% |
| Haircare |
2% – 8% |
Technical Profile
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INCI: Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
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Trade Name: FANCOL® POLYISO® 250-CG
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Manufacturer: Elementis
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Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
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Type: Emollient, waterproofing agent, carrier
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pH Stability: 4 – 9
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Shelf Life: 3 years
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Grade: Cosmetic
Formulation Tips
Add to the oil phase of formulations — it incorporates smoothly and requires no special processing. Use as a direct replacement for mineral oil at equivalent or slightly lower concentrations for a noticeably improved skin feel. In lip products, it contributes to gloss and slip without the drag of heavier waxes. In sunscreens, it improves the spreadability of UV filters and enhances water resistance. In hair products, it adds shine and conditioning without weighing strands down. Compatible with silicones, esters, waxes, and most cosmetic actives.
