Ingredient dictionary

Nylon-12

Also listed as: Polyamide-12, Nylon 12

Nylon-12 is a fine, lightweight synthetic powder from the nylon family. It mainly adds slip, softness and a smooth, matte feel. It is on the label of 13 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Nylon-12 does

Makes skin feel silky and smooth
Absorbs oil and softens shine
Adds texture and body to formulas

Nylon-12 is made in a factory from petroleum-based chemicals. The raw material is shaped into a polymer, then milled into a very fine powder. Because the particles are so small and smooth, they glide over skin and sit on the surface rather than dissolving into the formula.

Formulators use it to give a soft, velvety touch and to absorb oil, which is why it shows up in makeup, acne treatments and moisturizers. In eyeliner and nail products it helps build texture and a flexible finish. It feels light and dry to the touch, and it does not feel greasy.

Good for

Suits people who want a smooth, matte finish on makeup or oily-feeling skin, and formulas for eyes and nails.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is Nylon-12 safe for skin?

Nylon-12 is generally considered well tolerated and is not known to be a common irritant. It is a solid powder that stays on the surface and does not dissolve into the skin. As with any ingredient, a patch test is a sensible first step if your skin is sensitive.

Is Nylon-12 good for oily or acne-prone skin?

It is often used in oil-control products because it absorbs oil and gives a matte finish. Whether a product suits acne-prone skin depends on the whole formula, not one ingredient. Read the full list and try a small amount first.