Top 10 Companies in the Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Market (2025): Leading Innovators in Synthetic Emollients and Cosmetic Ingredients

In Business Insights
October 02, 2025


The Global Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Market was valued at US$ 168 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 250 Million by 2030, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.8% during the forecast period (2023–2030). This growth is being driven by rising demand in the cosmetics and personal care industry, increasing preference for clean beauty formulations free from mineral oils and silicones, and expanding applications in pharmaceuticals and industrial lubricants.

As the personal care and pharmaceutical sectors evolve toward sustainable, high-performance ingredients that enhance product texture and stability, the focus turns to key manufacturers who are advancing synthetic emollients like hydrogenated polyisobutene. Also known as synthetic squalane, this versatile liquid oil serves as an effective replacement for traditional oils in formulations. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Market—a blend of chemical giants, specialty ingredient providers, and innovative producers shaping the future of clean cosmetics and beyond.


🔟 1. Elementis plc

Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
Key Offering: High-purity hydrogenated polyisobutene grades for cosmetics and personal care

Elementis stands out as a global leader in specialty chemicals, with its personal care division producing hydrogenated polyisobutene under brands like Nutrifort. This company supplies ingredients to major cosmetic brands, emphasizing volatile and non-volatile grades that provide a silky feel without residue. Their products are widely used in lipsticks, foundations, and hair care formulations, supporting the shift toward silicone-free alternatives.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Development of low-molecular-weight grades for quick-evaporating effects in sunscreens

  • Partnerships with formulators to integrate synthetic squalane in clean beauty lines

  • Commitment to sustainable sourcing and reduced environmental impact in production

Download FREE Sample Report: Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Market – View in Detailed Research Report


9️⃣ 2. Croda International plc

Headquarters: Goole, East Riding of Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Key Offering: Hydrogenated polyisobutene emollients for skincare and color cosmetics

Croda is a prominent player in the ingredients market, offering hydrogenated polyisobutene as part of its extensive portfolio of sustainable actives. The company’s products enhance moisture retention and spreadability in creams, lotions, and makeup, catering to the growing demand for non-comedogenic ingredients. With a strong emphasis on natural-derived synthetics, Croda serves brands focused on ethical and effective formulations across Europe and North America.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Research into bio-based modifications for higher purity levels above 99.9%

  • Collaborations with dermatologists to validate safety in sensitive skin applications


8️⃣ 3. BASF SE

Headquarters: Ludwigshafen, Germany
Key Offering: Industrial-grade and cosmetic-grade hydrogenated polyisobutene

BASF, one of the world’s largest chemical companies, produces hydrogenated polyisobutene for diverse applications, including as a binder in pharmaceuticals and a lubricant in industrial settings. In cosmetics, their offerings replace mineral oils in eye shadows and nail polishes, providing a lightweight, non-greasy finish. The company’s scale allows for cost-effective supply chains, making it a go-to for large-volume producers in Asia-Pacific markets.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Expansion of production capacity to meet rising demands in emerging economies

  • Integration with other synthetic polymers for multifunctional cosmetic blends


7️⃣ 4. Amyris, Inc.

Headquarters: Emeryville, California, USA
Key Offering: Bio-synthetic hydrogenated polyisobutene variants for clean beauty

Amyris leverages biotechnology to create fermented, sustainable versions of hydrogenated polyisobutene, positioning itself as a pioneer in bio-identical ingredients. Their products, derived from sugarcane, offer high purity and are ideal for vegan and eco-conscious cosmetic lines. This approach appeals to brands seeking transparency in supply chains, with applications extending to medicinal ointments and topical treatments.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Biotech advancements for 99.9% purity segments targeting premium skincare

  • Goal to scale bio-production to reduce reliance on petroleum-based feedstocks

Download FREE Sample Report: Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Market – View in Detailed Research Report


6️⃣ 5. Vantage Specialty Chemicals

Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Key Offering: Specialty grades of hydrogenated polyisobutene for personal care

Vantage Specialty Chemicals specializes in oleochemicals and synthetics, providing hydrogenated polyisobutene that excels in fragrance retention and film-forming properties. Their portfolio supports the cosmetic industry’s move toward multifunctional ingredients, used in everything from body butters to medicated creams. With a focus on North American and European markets, Vantage ensures compliance with stringent regulatory standards like REACH and FDA guidelines.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Customized molecular weights for volatile applications in aerosol products

  • Targets for carbon-neutral manufacturing processes by 2030


5️⃣ 6. Kishimoto Sangyo Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Osaka, Japan
Key Offering: High-quality hydrogenated polyisobutene for Asian cosmetic markets

Kishimoto Sangyo is a key Japanese manufacturer known for its precision in producing hydrogenated polyisobutene, often branded as synthetic squalane alternatives. The company supplies to leading beauty firms in Asia, where demand for lightweight, non-oily textures in K-beauty and J-beauty products is surging. Their grades vary from light, evaporating types to heavier ones for long-lasting emollience, supporting innovations in sheet masks and serums.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Current output exceeding 5,000 tons annually for cosmetic applications

  • Expansion plans to double capacity by 2026 amid APAC growth


4️⃣ 7. Sophim

Headquarters: Roanne, France
Key Offering: Plant-derived synthetic squalane from hydrogenated polyisobutene processes

Sophim focuses on olive-based squalane but extends into hydrogenated polyisobutene for hybrid formulations, bridging natural and synthetic worlds. As a European specialist, they cater to luxury cosmetics with high-purity (99.9%) products that mimic skin lipids. This positions them well in the medicine sector for drug delivery systems, where stability and biocompatibility are crucial.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Hybrid R&D combining bio and synthetic routes for versatile applications

  • Certifications for organic-compatible synthetics in EU markets


3️⃣ 8. Clariant AG

Headquarters: Muttenz, Switzerland
Key Offering: Hydrogenated polyisobutene for industrial and pharmaceutical uses

Clariant delivers comprehensive solutions in specialty chemicals, with hydrogenated polyisobutene playing a role in their care chemicals division. Their products support other applications like adhesives and coatings, while in cosmetics, they enhance pigment dispersion. The company’s global footprint ensures reliable supply, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, where regulatory pressures favor clean ingredients.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Indigenous development of pharma-grade variants for topical medicines

  • Collaborations to integrate into sustainable packaging and delivery systems


2️⃣ 9. Kuraray Co., Ltd.

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Advanced polymer-based hydrogenated polyisobutene derivatives

Kuraray, a leader in synthetic resins, produces hydrogenated polyisobutene integrated with polyvinyl alcohol technologies for superior performance. In cosmetics, their offerings provide exceptional moisture barriers in anti-aging products, while pharmaceutical applications benefit from controlled-release properties. This Japanese powerhouse drives innovation in Asia-Pacific, where precision engineering meets beauty science.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • Aims for 10,000 tons/year production of specialty grades

  • Supply chain enhancements for global distribution


1️⃣ 10. INOLEX Corporation

Headquarters: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Key Offering: Eco-friendly hydrogenated polyisobutene for personal care and beyond

INOLEX specializes in sustainable ingredients, offering hydrogenated polyisobutene as a bio-alternative in their Lexgard and Lexol lines. They support over 1,000 formulations worldwide, focusing on the cosmetic segment with non-irritating, high-spreadability oils. As a logistics expert in ingredients, INOLEX excels in distribution to retailers, manufacturers, and global supply chains, emphasizing carbon-offset programs.

Innovation Initiatives:

  • End-to-end solutions for clean label products

  • Strategic alliances with formulators for next-gen emollients

Get Full Report Here: Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🌍 Outlook: The Future of Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Is Cleaner and More Versatile

The hydrogenated polyisobutene market is undergoing a vibrant transformation. Although traditional mineral oils persist, the sector is channeling significant investments into sustainable synthetics, purity enhancements, and expanded applications in cosmetics, medicine, and industrials.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

  • Rapid expansion in clean beauty formulations across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific

  • Regulatory incentives for silicone- and mineral oil-free ingredients by 2030

  • Digital tools for supply chain transparency and purity tracking

  • Strategic alliances between manufacturers and cosmetic giants for custom developments

Get Full Report Here: Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies profiled here are not only powering cosmetic innovation—they’re leading the transition to sustainable emollients in personal care and pharmaceuticals.

Download FREE Sample Report: Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Market – View in Detailed Research Report