Ingredient review

Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate

INCI: ACRYLOYLOXYETHYL BUTYLCARBAMATE

A synthetic film-former that helps products stay put and resist water, but offers no direct skin benefit.

beautyskincarefilm-former

In plain English

This ingredient is a man-made polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It's used to help other ingredients stick around longer, improve water resistance in sunscreens, and give makeup a more durable finish. Think of it like a clear, invisible seal that holds everything in place without feeling heavy or sticky.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate 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 Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate.
  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 polymer derived from acrylic acid and butyl carbamate, designed to create a flexible film on the skin or hair.

How it works

When applied, the molecules link together to form a continuous, breathable film. This film helps other ingredients (like UV filters or pigments) stay evenly distributed and resist being washed away by water or sweat.

Pros

Boosts water resistance

Helps sunscreens and makeup stay effective even when you sweat or swim, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.

Lightweight feel

Creates a flexible film that doesn't feel heavy or sticky, making it comfortable for daily wear on the face and body.

Cons and cautions

No active skin benefit

This ingredient is purely functional—it doesn't hydrate, soothe, or repair the skin. It's there to improve product performance, not skin health.

Potential tightness on sensitive skin

In rare cases, the film it forms can feel slightly tight or drying, especially if you have very dry or compromised skin.

Best for

  • Anyone using water-resistant sunscreen
  • People who want long-lasting makeup
  • Those who prefer lightweight, non-greasy textures

Use caution if

  • Individuals with known sensitivity to synthetic polymers (rare)
  • Those seeking purely natural or plant-based formulas

Usage tips

Use a gentle oil-based cleanser or micellar water to fully remove products containing this film-former at the end of the day.
If you have dry skin, layer a moisturizer underneath products with this ingredient to avoid any tight feeling.

Safety summary

Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been reported in published literature.

Research notes

Research on this specific ingredient is limited, but it belongs to a well-studied class of acrylate film-formers. Safety assessments by industry panels have found it safe for topical use. No peer-reviewed studies on skin penetration or long-term effects were identified.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. No specific restrictions at typical use levels.
Common uses
Sunscreens, Water-resistant formulas, Long-wear makeup
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it may not be biodegradable. However, it is used in very small amounts and is not known to accumulate in the environment.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often found in combination with other film-formers to fine-tune texture and durability.
  • It is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies at typical concentrations.

Common questions

What is Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate in beauty products?

This ingredient is a man-made polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin. It's used to help other ingredients stick around longer, improve water resistance in sunscreens, and give makeup a more durable finish. Think of it like a clear, invisible seal that holds everything in place without feeling heavy or sticky.

What does Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate do in a beauty product?

When applied, the molecules link together to form a continuous, breathable film. This film helps other ingredients (like UV filters or pigments) stay evenly distributed and resist being washed away by water or sweat.

Is Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate safe for most people?

Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been reported in published literature.

Who should be careful with Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate?

Individuals with known sensitivity to synthetic polymers (rare) Those seeking purely natural or plant-based formulas

Research sources

CosIng - EU Cosmetic Ingredient DatabaseOpenPubChem - Acryloyloxyethyl ButylcarbamateOpenCIR Safety Review of Acrylate PolymersOpen

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.