Ingredient review

Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer

INCI: ACRYLATES/BIS-HYDROXYPROPYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER

A safe, silicone-based ingredient that improves product texture and spreadability without clogging pores.

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In plain English

This is a synthetic ingredient made by combining acrylic polymers with silicone. It helps skincare and makeup products feel silky and spread easily on the skin. It also helps other ingredients stay in place and can give a slight blurring effect to the skin's surface.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.

Plain-English read

Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.

Score terms in plain English

Irritation risk

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A crosspolymer of acrylates and a silicone derivative, forming a flexible film on the skin.

How it works

When applied, it creates a thin, breathable film that helps other ingredients adhere to the skin and improves the sensory feel of the product. It also thickens formulas and helps control oiliness.

Pros

Enhances texture

Gives products a silky, luxurious feel that glides on smoothly without greasiness.

Improves wear time

Helps makeup and skincare ingredients stay on the skin longer, reducing the need for touch-ups.

Cons and cautions

Silicone-based

Some users prefer to avoid silicones for personal or environmental reasons, though this ingredient is generally well-tolerated.

Potential buildup

In high concentrations, it may leave a slight film that some find heavy, especially on oily skin.

Best for

  • Anyone who wants a smoother makeup application
  • People with normal to dry skin looking for a silky finish

Use caution if

  • Those strictly avoiding all silicones in their routine

Usage tips

Use products containing this ingredient after water-based serums for best layering.
If you experience a tight feeling, reduce the amount used or pair with a hydrating toner.

Safety summary

Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential and is widely used in skincare and makeup.

Research notes

Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels have found this ingredient to be safe at typical use concentrations. It is not known to cause significant irritation or sensitization.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets with no known restrictions.
Common uses
Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Primers, Foundations
Environmental note
As a synthetic silicone derivative, it is not biodegradable. Some consumers choose silicone-free alternatives for environmental reasons.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often used in primers and sunscreens to improve application.
  • It is considered non-comedogenic and safe for most skin types.

Common questions

What is Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer in beauty products?

This is a synthetic ingredient made by combining acrylic polymers with silicone. It helps skincare and makeup products feel silky and spread easily on the skin. It also helps other ingredients stay in place and can give a slight blurring effect to the skin's surface.

What does Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?

When applied, it creates a thin, breathable film that helps other ingredients adhere to the skin and improves the sensory feel of the product. It also thickens formulas and helps control oiliness.

Is Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer safe for most people?

Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential and is widely used in skincare and makeup.

Who should be careful with Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer?

Those strictly avoiding all silicones in their routine

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenINCI Database - Personal Care CouncilOpen

Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.