Po
Polybutene
PolybuteneBarrier
A thick, sticky synthetic emollient used mainly in lip gloss to give shine, cushion, and that long-lasting glossy cling.
What it does
Polybutene is a viscous, tacky liquid polymer used as an emollient and gloss agent. Its signature is the high-shine, cushiony, long-wearing film it leaves, which is why it is a staple in lip glosses and shiny balms. It also adds body to a formula. It is a feel-and-finish ingredient rather than a skin active.
Browse all 668 ingredients — grouped by what they do, each with whatever evidence we can cite.
This page is public so a shared ingredient card always has its sources behind it — and so you can check them without an account.
Want more like this?
Every evidence-based flag cites its source, Drop tells you when your routine is complete, and it helps you simplify — instead of selling you more. The app launches on iOS and Android in October 2026. Rate my routine works today at /rate — no sign-in.