What Is Maleic anhydride?

Learn about the film-forming characteristics of Maleic anhydride and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Maleic anhydride? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Maleic anhydride?

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Maleic anhydride is a substance that can be found in nature but is also made in a lab. It comes in different forms like powder, crystals, or pellets and can be used to make things like paints and plastics. When used in cosmetics, it helps create a film on the skin. However, it is important to handle this substance with care as it can cause irritation and burns if not handled properly.

What is the purpose of Maleic anhydride in personal care products? It is used for its film-forming characteristics. Maleic anhydride creates a thin layer on the skin/nails/hair.

Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Maleic Anhydride, Toxilic anhydride, 2,5-Furandione, cis-Butenedioic anhydride, and 2,5-Dihydrofuran-2,5-dione.

What Are Film-Forming Ingredients?

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Maleic anhydride has film-forming characteristics.

Film-forming ingredients are used in many cosmetic products, including skincare, haircare, and makeup. These ingredients can have different chemical compositions and functions, but they all share the goal of creating a film on the surface they are applied on.

In skincare products, film-forming ingredients are often used to create a barrier on the skin's surface that helps to lock in moisture. This can benefit people with dry or sensitive skin, as it can help to prevent the skin from becoming dehydrated and irritated. Some film-forming ingredients can also provide a temporary tightening or lifting effect, which can help reduce the visibility of lines and wrinkles on your skin.

In haircare products, film-forming ingredients can help smooth and protect the hair cuticle, making hair look shinier and feel smoother. Film-forming ingredients can also help to protect hair from environmental stressors like heat styling and pollution.

In makeup products, film-forming ingredients can help create a smooth, even base for additional products like foundation or powder. They can also help to improve the wear time of makeup products by creating a barrier that helps to keep them in place.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.