Ingredient review
Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer
INCI: Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer
A safe, effective thickener that gives gels and creams a smooth, non-sticky feel without clogging pores.
In plain English
This is a synthetic ingredient that helps skincare products have a nice, smooth texture. It thickens watery formulas into gels or creams and keeps the product stable so it doesn't separate. It's very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate 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.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A high-molecular-weight synthetic polymer made from dimethylacrylamide and sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate monomers, crosslinked to form a network that swells in water.
How it works
When added to water, the polymer particles absorb water and swell, increasing the viscosity of the formula. This creates a smooth, non-greasy gel texture and helps stabilize emulsions by preventing oil and water from separating.
Pros
Excellent texture enhancer
Creates a smooth, non-sticky gel or cream that spreads easily and feels lightweight on the skin.
Very low irritation potential
Clinical and safety data show it rarely causes skin irritation or allergic reactions, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is a lab-made polymer, which may not align with preferences for natural or 'clean' beauty products.
Can feel tacky at high levels
If used in very high concentrations, the product may feel slightly sticky or heavy on the skin.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys lightweight gel textures
- People with oily or combination skin looking for oil-free hydration
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Extensively tested and considered safe for topical use. Non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic at typical concentrations.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel and other bodies confirm its low irritation and sensitization potential. No significant toxicity concerns have been identified.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the U.S. FDA and EU CosIng database, with no known restrictions.
- Common uses
- Gels, Serums, Creams, Lotions
- 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.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often used in 'gel-cream' formulas that provide hydration without a greasy residue.
- It is compatible with a wide range of pH levels, making it versatile for different product types.
Common questions
What is Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a synthetic ingredient that helps skincare products have a nice, smooth texture. It thickens watery formulas into gels or creams and keeps the product stable so it doesn't separate. It's very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts.
What does Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When added to water, the polymer particles absorb water and swell, increasing the viscosity of the formula. This creates a smooth, non-greasy gel texture and helps stabilize emulsions by preventing oil and water from separating.
Is Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Extensively tested and considered safe for topical use. Non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic at typical concentrations.
Who should be careful with Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer?
Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients
Research sources
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.