Ingredient review

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer

INCI: AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/BEHENETH-25 METHACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER

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

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In plain English

This is a synthetic ingredient that helps skincare products feel smooth and lightweight. It thickens watery formulas into a gel or cream without leaving a heavy or greasy residue. Think of it as the ingredient that makes a clear serum feel silky on your skin instead of runny like water.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 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 Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 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 acryloyldimethyltaurate and beheneth-25 methacrylate monomers, crosslinked to form a network that can absorb and hold water.

How it works

When added to water, the polymer chains swell and entangle, increasing the viscosity of the formula. This creates a stable gel structure that also helps keep oil and water mixed together (emulsion stabilization), preventing separation.

Pros

Lightweight texture

Creates a silky, non-sticky feel that absorbs quickly, making it ideal for gel-based serums and moisturizers.

Excellent stability

Helps keep formulas from separating and works well even in products with a low pH, like vitamin C serums.

Cons and cautions

Synthetic origin

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

Potential slipperiness

If used at high concentrations, the gel can feel overly slippery or 'slimy' on the skin, which some people dislike.

Best for

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

Use caution if

  • Those strictly avoiding all synthetic ingredients

Usage tips

Apply to damp skin for easier spreading and better absorption.
Layer with other water-based products before oils or heavy creams.
Store products containing this polymer in a cool, dry place to maintain texture.

Safety summary

Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory or expert panels.

Research notes

Safety assessed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, which concluded it is safe as used in cosmetics. No published studies link it to skin sensitization or systemic toxicity at cosmetic use levels.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the EU Cosmetics Regulation and the US FDA (as a cosmetic ingredient). No concentration restrictions for leave-on products.
Common uses
Serums, Gels, Creams, Sunscreens, Makeup
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not readily biodegradable. However, it is used in very low concentrations and is not known to bioaccumulate.

Good to know

  • Often listed near the end of ingredient lists because only a small amount is needed.
  • Can be used in both leave-on and rinse-off products.
  • Sometimes labeled under the trade name Aristoflex® AVL.

Common questions

What is Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer in beauty products?

This is a synthetic ingredient that helps skincare products feel smooth and lightweight. It thickens watery formulas into a gel or cream without leaving a heavy or greasy residue. Think of it as the ingredient that makes a clear serum feel silky on your skin instead of runny like water.

What does Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?

When added to water, the polymer chains swell and entangle, increasing the viscosity of the formula. This creates a stable gel structure that also helps keep oil and water mixed together (emulsion stabilization), preventing separation.

Is Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer safe for most people?

Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic potential. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory or expert panels.

Who should be careful with Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer?

Those strictly avoiding all synthetic 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.