Ingredient review

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer

INCI: AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER

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

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In plain English

This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that acts like a thickening agent in skincare. When added to water, it swells and creates a gel-like texture, making products feel smooth and spreadable without being sticky or greasy. It also helps keep oil and water mixed together so the formula stays stable.

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP 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/VP 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 copolymer made from acryloyldimethyltaurate and vinylpyrrolidone monomers. It is a white powder that readily absorbs water to form a clear, viscous gel.

How it works

When dispersed in water, the polymer chains unwind and interact with water molecules, increasing the viscosity of the solution. This creates a stable gel network that can suspend particles and stabilize emulsions, preventing separation of oil and water phases.

Pros

Lightweight feel

Provides a silky, non-sticky texture that absorbs quickly, making it ideal for gel creams and serums used under makeup.

Excellent stability

Maintains its thickening power even in formulas with high salt content or extreme pH, so your product stays consistent over time.

Cons and cautions

Synthetic origin

As a lab-made polymer, it may not be suitable for consumers seeking 100% natural or organic skincare products.

Potential tackiness at high levels

If overused, it can leave a slightly sticky or film-like residue on the skin, though this is rare at typical concentrations.

Best for

  • Anyone who prefers lightweight, gel-based moisturizers or serums
  • People with oily or combination skin looking for non-greasy hydration

Use caution if

  • Those strictly avoiding all synthetic ingredients in their routine

Usage tips

Look for this ingredient in gel-based moisturizers and lightweight sunscreens for a refreshing, non-greasy finish.
If you experience any tackiness, try applying the product on damp skin to help it spread more evenly.

Safety summary

Considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. 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 polymer is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 3%. No significant skin sensitization or toxicity concerns have been reported.

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 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 known to bioaccumulate.

Good to know

  • It is often labeled as Aristoflex AVC on ingredient lists.
  • This polymer is frequently used in 'water cream' textures that feel like water upon application.

Common questions

What is Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer in beauty products?

This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that acts like a thickening agent in skincare. When added to water, it swells and creates a gel-like texture, making products feel smooth and spreadable without being sticky or greasy. It also helps keep oil and water mixed together so the formula stays stable.

What does Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer do in a beauty product?

When dispersed in water, the polymer chains unwind and interact with water molecules, increasing the viscosity of the solution. This creates a stable gel network that can suspend particles and stabilize emulsions, preventing separation of oil and water phases.

Is Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer safe for most people?

Considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. 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/VP Copolymer?

Those strictly avoiding all synthetic ingredients in their routine

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenPubChem Compound SummaryOpenEuropean Chemicals Agency (ECHA) InformationOpen

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.