Ingredient review

Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer

INCI: ACRYLATES/DIMETHICONE COPOLYMER

A safe, synthetic film-former that helps products spread smoothly and stay put without clogging pores.

beautyskincarefilm-former

In plain English

This is a man-made ingredient that combines acrylics (common in adhesives) with silicone to create a flexible, breathable film on your skin or hair. It helps makeup last longer, sunscreens resist water, and hair products hold their shape. It's not absorbed into the skin and is considered very safe for most people.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer 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/Dimethicone Copolymer.
  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 synthetic copolymer made by reacting acrylate monomers with a dimethicone (silicone) backbone. It forms a flexible, water-resistant film when applied.

How it works

When the water or solvent in a product evaporates, the copolymer molecules link together into a thin, invisible film on the skin or hair. This film helps other ingredients stay in place, reduces transfer, and improves water resistance.

Pros

Enhances wear time

Helps makeup and sunscreen stay in place longer, reducing the need for touch-ups throughout the day.

Lightweight feel

Creates a smooth, non-greasy film that doesn't feel heavy or sticky on the skin.

Cons and cautions

Potential tightness

On very dry or sensitive skin, the film can feel slightly tight or uncomfortable, especially if layered under other products.

Not biodegradable

As a synthetic polymer, it does not readily break down in the environment, which may be a concern for eco-conscious users.

Best for

  • People who want long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
  • Those with oily or combination skin who prefer a matte finish

Use caution if

  • Individuals with very dry or dehydrated skin who may find film-formers uncomfortable
  • Anyone strictly avoiding synthetic polymers or silicones

Usage tips

Apply to well-moisturized skin to avoid any tight feeling from the film.
Use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to fully remove products containing this ingredient at the end of the day.

Safety summary

Extensive safety reviews by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that acrylates/dimethicone copolymer is safe for use in cosmetics at current levels. It is not absorbed through the skin and has very low irritation or allergy potential.

Research notes

The ingredient has been evaluated by the CIR Expert Panel, which found no significant toxicity or sensitization risks. Most evidence comes from industry safety data and regulatory reviews rather than independent clinical studies.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database, with no concentration restrictions.
Common uses
Foundations, Sunscreens, Long-wear makeup, Hair styling products
Environmental note
As a synthetic silicone-acrylate polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is not known to bioaccumulate in aquatic life.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is commonly found in 'transfer-proof' or '24-hour wear' makeup formulas.
  • It is considered non-comedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin by most dermatologists.

Common questions

What is Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer in beauty products?

This is a man-made ingredient that combines acrylics (common in adhesives) with silicone to create a flexible, breathable film on your skin or hair. It helps makeup last longer, sunscreens resist water, and hair products hold their shape. It's not absorbed into the skin and is considered very safe for most people.

What does Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer do in a beauty product?

When the water or solvent in a product evaporates, the copolymer molecules link together into a thin, invisible film on the skin or hair. This film helps other ingredients stay in place, reduces transfer, and improves water resistance.

Is Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer safe for most people?

Extensive safety reviews by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that acrylates/dimethicone copolymer is safe for use in cosmetics at current levels. It is not absorbed through the skin and has very low irritation or allergy potential.

Who should be careful with Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer?

Individuals with very dry or dehydrated skin who may find film-formers uncomfortable Anyone strictly avoiding synthetic polymers or silicones

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenEU CosIng DatabaseOpenPubMed - Silicone Polymers 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.