Ingredient review

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate Copolymer

INCI: AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/LAURETH-7 METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER

A versatile synthetic thickener that creates a smooth, non-sticky gel texture and helps stabilize formulas without clogging pores.

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In plain English

This is a synthetic ingredient that helps give skincare products a nice, smooth gel-like texture. Think of it like a thickening agent that turns a watery liquid into a more luxurious gel or cream. It also helps keep the product stable so the oil and water parts don't separate. It's very gentle on skin and unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate 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 Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate 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 high-molecular-weight synthetic polymer derived from acrylic acid and taurine derivatives. It is a white powder that swells in water to form a clear, viscous gel.

How it works

When mixed with water, the polymer chains unwind and absorb water, creating a network that thickens the formula. This network also helps suspend other ingredients and stabilize emulsions, preventing separation over time.

Pros

Lightweight feel

Creates a silky, non-sticky gel that absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy or greasy residue on the skin.

Formula stability

Helps keep oil and water phases mixed, preventing separation and extending the shelf life of the product.

Cons and cautions

Synthetic origin

Derived from petroleum-based raw materials, which may be a concern for those seeking natural or organic skincare.

Limited electrolyte tolerance

May lose thickening ability in formulas with high salt or mineral content, requiring alternative thickeners.

Best for

  • Anyone who prefers lightweight, non-sticky gel textures
  • People with oily or combination skin looking for oil-free hydration

Use caution if

  • Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients
  • Formulators working with very high electrolyte concentrations

Usage tips

Best used at 0.1–1% for light gels and up to 2% for thicker creams.
Neutralize with a base (e.g., triethanolamine) after dispersion to achieve full viscosity.
Avoid adding high concentrations of salts or strong acids directly to the polymer dispersion.

Safety summary

Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic profile, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Research notes

Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that acrylates copolymers are safe when formulated to be non-irritating. No significant toxicity or sensitization has been reported in clinical studies.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database. No concentration restrictions are typically imposed.
Common uses
Gels, Serums, Creams, Lotions, Sunscreens
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in very low concentrations and is not known to bioaccumulate.

Good to know

  • Often labeled as 'Aristoflex AVC' in ingredient lists.
  • Compatible with most common skincare ingredients including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C.
  • Does not require high heat or special mixing equipment to incorporate.

Common questions

What is Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate Copolymer in beauty products?

This is a synthetic ingredient that helps give skincare products a nice, smooth gel-like texture. Think of it like a thickening agent that turns a watery liquid into a more luxurious gel or cream. It also helps keep the product stable so the oil and water parts don't separate. It's very gentle on skin and unlikely to cause breakouts or irritation.

What does Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate Copolymer do in a beauty product?

When mixed with water, the polymer chains unwind and absorb water, creating a network that thickens the formula. This network also helps suspend other ingredients and stabilize emulsions, preventing separation over time.

Is Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate Copolymer safe for most people?

Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic profile, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Who should be careful with Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate Copolymer?

Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients Formulators working with very high electrolyte concentrations

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety Assessment of Acrylates CopolymersOpenEU CosIng Database - Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate CopolymerOpenPubChem - Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Laureth-7 Methacrylate CopolymerOpen

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.