Ingredient review

Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer

INCI: ACRYLATES/CETEARETH-20 METHACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER

A reliable synthetic thickener that gives gels and creams a smooth, non-sticky feel without clogging pores.

beautyskincaretexturizer

In plain English

This is a synthetic ingredient that helps skincare products feel smooth and spread easily. It thickens watery formulas into a gel or cream texture and keeps other ingredients evenly mixed. It is not absorbed into the skin but stays on the surface to improve the product's feel and stability.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate 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/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate 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 high-molecular-weight synthetic polymer made from acrylic acid and ceteareth-20 methacrylate, crosslinked to form a network that swells in water.

How it works

When added to water, the polymer particles absorb liquid and swell, creating a gel-like network that thickens the formula. This network also helps suspend insoluble particles (like pigments or oils) and provides a smooth, non-tacky feel when applied to skin.

Pros

Smooth, non-sticky feel

Unlike some thickeners that leave a tacky residue, this polymer creates a silky, lightweight texture that absorbs quickly.

Excellent stability

It helps keep ingredients like oils, powders, and active compounds evenly dispersed, preventing separation and ensuring consistent performance.

Cons and cautions

Synthetic origin

It is a man-made polymer, which may not align with preferences for natural or clean beauty routines.

Potential tackiness at high levels

If used in very high concentrations or combined with certain other thickeners, it can create a slightly sticky or heavy feel.

Best for

  • Anyone who prefers lightweight, non-greasy gel textures
  • People with oily or combination skin who want a matte finish

Use caution if

  • Those seeking exclusively natural or organic ingredients

Usage tips

Use in water-based formulas at 0.1–2% for best texture without stickiness.
Neutralize with a base (e.g., triethanolamine) after hydration to activate full thickening.
Combine with humectants like glycerin to enhance skin feel and hydration.

Safety summary

Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer is considered safe for topical use. It is not absorbed into the skin, has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is widely used in cosmetics. No significant safety concerns have been reported in normal use.

Research notes

Safety assessments by cosmetic ingredient review panels and regulatory bodies have concluded that this polymer is safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Studies focus on its physical properties rather than biological activity, as it remains on the skin surface.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for cosmetic use in the EU, US, and other major markets. Generally recognized as safe when used as intended.
Common uses
Gels, Serums, Creams, Lotions, Sunscreens
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in very low concentrations and is not known to accumulate in the environment.

Good to know

  • This polymer is often used in 'gel-cream' hybrids to achieve a lightweight yet moisturizing feel.
  • It is compatible with a wide pH range (typically 5–9), making it versatile for various formulations.

Common questions

What is Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer in beauty products?

This is a synthetic ingredient that helps skincare products feel smooth and spread easily. It thickens watery formulas into a gel or cream texture and keeps other ingredients evenly mixed. It is not absorbed into the skin but stays on the surface to improve the product's feel and stability.

What does Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?

When added to water, the polymer particles absorb liquid and swell, creating a gel-like network that thickens the formula. This network also helps suspend insoluble particles (like pigments or oils) and provides a smooth, non-tacky feel when applied to skin.

Is Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer safe for most people?

Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer is considered safe for topical use. It is not absorbed into the skin, has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and is widely used in cosmetics. No significant safety concerns have been reported in normal use.

Who should be careful with Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer?

Those seeking exclusively natural or organic ingredients

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenEuropean Chemicals Agency (ECHA) InformationOpenPubMed - Polymer Use in CosmeticsOpen

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.