Eastman AQ™ polymers are highly versatile water-dispersible polymers used in hairstyling, sun care, and color cosmetics for their film forming properties. They are formulated in a variety of hairstyling products including hair gels and sprays. AQ polymers are also used in sunscreen lotions, creams, and milk sprays. In color cosmetics, they are used in mascara, eyeliners, and makeup.
Eastman AQ™ polymers are sulfopolyesters that disperse directly in water without the assistance of emulsifiers, organic cosolvents, inorganic bases, amines, or other additives. AQ polymers aid the dispersion of hydrophobic ingredients in water-based formulations and form clear films at room temperature from aqueous dispersions. Eastman AQ™ polymers differ in glass transition temperature (Tg), alcohol tolerance, and their degree of water resistance.
Eastman AQ™ 38S polymer provides excellent film formation and water resistance in sunscreen products. As indicated by the number in the product name, AQ 38S polymer has a Tg of about 38°C. Because of its low Tg, Eastman AQ™ 38S forms flexible films on the skin. It imparts a smooth feel to creams, lotions, and sprays and adheres to the skin.
Eastman AQ™ 48 ultra polymer was designed specifically for use as a hair fixative in 55% VOC hairspray. Therefore, it is more compatible with higher levels of alcohol than Eastman AQ™ 38S or 55S and has good wash out with shampooing. AQ 48 polymer provides excellent hold at high humidity in aerosol and pump hairsprays, as well as in clear styling gels.
Eastman AQ™ 55S polymer has good film integrity when combined with other cosmetics ingredients and is the preferred AQ polymer to improve water and smudge resistance of water-based makeup and mascaras. In hairstyling products, AQ 55S provides excellent hold under high-humidity conditions and stiffness that is easily modified with plasticizers and thickeners.