Ingredient review

Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer

INCI: AMMONIUM ACRYLOYL DIMETHYLTAURATE/CARBOXYETHYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER

A reliable synthetic thickener that gives water-based products a smooth, non-sticky feel without clogging pores.

beautyskincaretexturizer

In plain English

This ingredient is a synthetic powder that swells when mixed with water, turning a thin liquid into a gel or cream. It helps skincare products feel silky and spread easily, without leaving a heavy or sticky residue. Think of it like a thickening agent that also keeps the product stable so it doesn't separate into layers.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate 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 Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate 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 crosslinked to form a network that absorbs water and creates a gel-like consistency.

How it works

When added to water, the polymer chains unwind and absorb water, swelling to form a viscous gel. This increases the product's thickness and helps suspend other ingredients like oils or powders, preventing separation. It also imparts a smooth, non-tacky feel on the skin.

Pros

Smooth, non-sticky feel

Creates a silky texture that glides on easily and dries down without tackiness, making it ideal for lightweight gels and serums.

Versatile and stable

Works in both acidic and neutral formulas, helping to keep products stable and consistent over time without separating.

Cons and cautions

Synthetic origin

Made from petroleum-derived materials, which may be a concern for those seeking fully natural or biodegradable ingredients.

Potential tackiness in high humidity

In very humid conditions or if used at too high a concentration, the gel may feel slightly sticky on the skin.

Best for

  • Anyone who prefers lightweight, non-greasy gels or serums
  • People with oily or combination skin who dislike heavy creams

Use caution if

  • Those strictly avoiding all synthetic ingredients
  • Individuals with known sensitivity to acrylate polymers (rare)

Usage tips

Use in water-based formulas; it needs water to swell and thicken.
Add slowly while mixing to avoid clumps and ensure even dispersion.
Pair with a neutralizing agent if the formula is very acidic (below pH 4) for best performance.

Safety summary

Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar acrylate crosspolymers and found them safe when formulated properly. Rare cases of skin irritation have been reported, but it is generally well-tolerated.

Research notes

Limited independent clinical studies specifically on this polymer, but it is widely used in cosmetics with a long history of safe use. Its safety is supported by analogy to other acrylate crosspolymers reviewed by the CIR.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU CosIng database and the US FDA as a cosmetic ingredient. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
Common uses
Gels, Serums, Creams, Lotions, Sunscreens
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable in standard wastewater treatment. Some newer grades are designed to be more environmentally friendly, but most conventional versions persist in the environment.

Good to know

  • Often labeled as 'Aristoflex AVC' on ingredient lists.
  • It is not absorbed into the skin; it stays on the surface to provide texture.
  • Biodegradability varies; check with the supplier for eco-friendly grades.

Common questions

What is Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer in beauty products?

This ingredient is a synthetic powder that swells when mixed with water, turning a thin liquid into a gel or cream. It helps skincare products feel silky and spread easily, without leaving a heavy or sticky residue. Think of it like a thickening agent that also keeps the product stable so it doesn't separate into layers.

What does Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?

When added to water, the polymer chains unwind and absorb water, swelling to form a viscous gel. This increases the product's thickness and helps suspend other ingredients like oils or powders, preventing separation. It also imparts a smooth, non-tacky feel on the skin.

Is Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer safe for most people?

Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar acrylate crosspolymers and found them safe when formulated properly. Rare cases of skin irritation have been reported, but it is generally well-tolerated.

Who should be careful with Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer?

Those strictly avoiding all synthetic ingredients Individuals with known sensitivity to acrylate polymers (rare)

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) – Acrylates CrosspolymersOpenEU CosIng Database – Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate CrosspolymerOpenPubMed – Safety of Acrylate 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.