Co-polymers are strong, yet tough and less likely to flake
Co-polymers
Co-polymers such as PVP/VA copolymer and acrylates copolymer are designed to bring more balance to a formula. These materials have segments that are rigid and water soluble, and also have segments that are water resistant and more flexible. This creates an overall polymer that is strong, yet tough and less likely to flake. The polymer is sufficiently water soluble as to be fairly easily removed from hair, yet it is hydrophobic enough to resist absorption of moisture from the local environment.
Other polymers can also offer various advantages, such as polyquaternium (cationic”> polymers, which can provide conditioning and smoothing properties, as well as good hold and humidity resistance. Polyurethanes are excellent for thermal resistance for heat styling.
Research is ongoing to find the perfect polymer or polymer system that can meet all of the requirements for a gel, but it is likely that we will always be settling for the “best fit” for the desired purpose. Besides, it would be boring (and potentially career-threatening”> if we always had to choose the same polymer every time. It is fun to play with different ones and with various combinations of polymers and other additives. The educated consumer can determine which product or products is best for their hair and their environment by closely examining the ingredients list and asking questions if they find ingredients about which they are unsure. You may need one product for summer and one for winter too, depending upon where you live.
