STYRENE
Styrene is a volatile organic liquid, also known as vinylbenzene. Its name can appear in industrial chemistry, but it is not the same material as polystyrene: it is the small molecule that can be linked repeatedly to make that type of plastic.
STYRENE: what it is
Styrene is a volatile organic liquid, also known as vinylbenzene. Its name can appear in industrial chemistry, but it is not the same material as polystyrene: it is the small molecule that can be linked repeatedly to make that type of plastic.
It is produced mainly through industrial synthesis and is a raw material for polymers and resins. This distinguishes styrene from plant ingredients, oils, and extracts found on labels: it is a monomer, meaning a starting unit used to manufacture polymeric materials.
STYRENE: what it does in cosmetics
Its solvent function refers to the ability to dissolve or help disperse other substances while a mixture is being prepared. That can affect how components combine in a formulation, but it does not mean that styrene provides moisturising, softening, or another skin- or hair-care benefit.
In the European Union, styrene is listed among substances prohibited in cosmetic products. It is therefore not an ingredient to seek out as a beauty active: the solvent description belongs to the substance's technical context, while the regulatory condition prevents its use in cosmetics placed on the European market.
STYRENE: conditions and care
In the European Union, styrene is included in Annex II of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, the list of substances prohibited in cosmetic products. It therefore cannot be used in cosmetics placed on the European market.
Restrictions and conditions of use
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
