Ingredient review
Melamine Resorcinol Acryloyl Crosspolymer
INCI: MELAMINE/RESORCINOL/ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/PEG-6 METHACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER
A synthetic polymer that helps products stay put and feel smooth, but offers no active skin benefits.
In plain English
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. It helps other ingredients spread evenly, makes products feel silky, and improves water resistance—so your sunscreen or makeup lasts longer. Think of it like a gentle, invisible glue that holds the product together without clogging pores or causing irritation for most people.
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
Melamine Resorcinol Acryloyl 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 Melamine Resorcinol Acryloyl 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 synthetic crosspolymer created by combining melamine, resorcinol, and acryloyldimethyltaurate with PEG-6 methacrylate. It is designed to thicken formulas and create a smooth, water-resistant film on the skin or hair.
How it works
When applied, the polymer molecules link together to form a thin, flexible film that sits on the surface of the skin or hair. This film helps lock in other ingredients, reduces water loss from the product, and gives a smooth, non-sticky feel. It also helps sunscreen actives stay put longer.
Pros
Boosts water resistance
Helps sunscreens and makeup stay effective longer when you sweat or swim, so you don't have to reapply as often.
Smooth, non-sticky feel
Creates a silky finish on skin and hair without the tackiness some thickeners leave behind.
Cons and cautions
No active skin benefit
This ingredient only improves product feel and performance—it doesn't hydrate, brighten, or protect your skin on its own.
Synthetic and not biodegradable
As a man-made polymer, it doesn't break down easily in the environment, which may be a concern for eco-conscious users.
Best for
- Anyone wanting longer-lasting sunscreen or makeup
- People who prefer lightweight, non-greasy textures
Use caution if
- Those seeking purely natural or biodegradable formulas
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally considered safe for topical use. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No known toxicity concerns at typical cosmetic concentrations. Always patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Research notes
Limited independent studies on this specific crosspolymer, but similar acrylate crosspolymers have been reviewed by the CIR and found safe. Most evidence comes from manufacturer data and regulatory safety assessments.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5–5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar crosspolymers and found them safe at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Water-resistant products, Makeup, Hair styling products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate. Eco-friendly alternatives like xanthan gum exist but offer less water resistance.
Good to know
- This polymer is often used alongside other film-formers to boost durability.
- It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used in typical cosmetic concentrations.
Common questions
What is Melamine Resorcinol Acryloyl Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a man-made ingredient that forms a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. It helps other ingredients spread evenly, makes products feel silky, and improves water resistance—so your sunscreen or makeup lasts longer. Think of it like a gentle, invisible glue that holds the product together without clogging pores or causing irritation for most people.
What does Melamine Resorcinol Acryloyl Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer molecules link together to form a thin, flexible film that sits on the surface of the skin or hair. This film helps lock in other ingredients, reduces water loss from the product, and gives a smooth, non-sticky feel. It also helps sunscreen actives stay put longer.
Is Melamine Resorcinol Acryloyl Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Generally considered safe for topical use. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No known toxicity concerns at typical cosmetic concentrations. Always patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Melamine Resorcinol Acryloyl Crosspolymer?
Those seeking purely natural or biodegradable formulas
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.