Ingredient review

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer

INCI: AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/CARBOXYETHYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER

A gentle synthetic thickener that creates a smooth, non-sticky gel texture without clogging pores.

beautyskincarethickener

In plain English

This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that acts like a thickening sponge. When mixed with water, it swells and forms a gel-like network that gives products a smooth, silky feel. It helps stabilize formulas so that oils and water don't separate, and it leaves a lightweight, non-greasy finish on the skin. You'll often find it in clear gels, lightweight serums, and lotions where a pleasant texture is important.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/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 Acryloyldimethyltaurate/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 derived from acrylic acid and taurate compounds. It is manufactured through a controlled crosslinking process that creates a powder capable of absorbing water and swelling into a gel.

How it works

When added to water, the polymer particles absorb liquid and expand, forming a three-dimensional network that increases the viscosity of the formula. This network also helps suspend other ingredients (like oils or active particles) and prevents them from separating. The result is a stable, smooth, and spreadable product that feels light on the skin.

Pros

Lightweight feel

Provides a silky, non-greasy finish that absorbs quickly, making it ideal for daytime serums and gel moisturizers.

Excellent stability

Helps keep water and oil mixed together, preventing your product from separating or becoming watery over time.

Cons and cautions

Synthetic origin

Made from petroleum-derived acrylic acid, which may not align with preferences for natural or eco-friendly ingredients.

Potential tackiness

If used at too high a concentration, it can leave a slightly sticky or tacky residue on the skin.

Best for

  • People who prefer lightweight, non-greasy gel textures
  • Those with oily or combination skin looking for oil-free hydration

Use caution if

  • Individuals seeking 100% natural or organic formulations
  • Those with very sensitive skin who react to synthetic polymers (rare)

Usage tips

Use in water-based formulas at 0.1–2% for best texture without stickiness.
Add slowly while mixing to avoid clumping and ensure even dispersion.
Neutralize with a base (like triethanolamine) if needed to achieve full thickening.

Safety summary

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

Research notes

Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that this ingredient is safe for use in cosmetic products. Studies show it does not cause significant skin irritation or sensitization. Its primary function is as a thickener and stabilizer, with no known systemic toxicity when used topically.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, USA, and most major markets. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
Common uses
Gels, Serums, Creams, Lotions, Sunscreens
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in very small amounts and is not considered a major environmental concern compared to microplastics.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often labeled as Aristoflex AVC in commercial formulations.
  • It is compatible with a wide range of active ingredients, including acids and salts.
  • Unlike some thickeners, it does not require heat to activate.

Common questions

What is Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer in beauty products?

This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that acts like a thickening sponge. When mixed with water, it swells and forms a gel-like network that gives products a smooth, silky feel. It helps stabilize formulas so that oils and water don't separate, and it leaves a lightweight, non-greasy finish on the skin. You'll often find it in clear gels, lightweight serums, and lotions where a pleasant texture is important.

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

When added to water, the polymer particles absorb liquid and expand, forming a three-dimensional network that increases the viscosity of the formula. This network also helps suspend other ingredients (like oils or active particles) and prevents them from separating. The result is a stable, smooth, and spreadable product that feels light on the skin.

Is Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer safe for most people?

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

Who should be careful with Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer?

Individuals seeking 100% natural or organic formulations Those with very sensitive skin who react to synthetic polymers (rare)

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenPubChem Compound SummaryOpenINCI Database - European CommissionOpen

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.