Ingredient review

Polyacrylate-37

INCI: POLYACRYLATE-37

A safe, effective thickener that improves product feel and stability, but offers no direct skin benefit.

beautyskincaretexturizer

In plain English

Polyacrylate-37 is a synthetic ingredient that acts like a thickening agent in skincare. It helps turn watery liquids into smooth gels or creams, making products easier to apply and more stable over time. It doesn't actively treat skin concerns but improves the texture and feel of your products.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.8Good
3.8/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

Polyacrylate-37 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 Polyacrylate-37.
  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

Polyacrylate-37 is a high-molecular-weight synthetic polymer belonging to the acrylate family. It is produced by polymerizing acrylic acid derivatives and is commonly used as a thickener and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations.

How it works

When added to water, Polyacrylate-37 swells and forms a network that increases the viscosity of the formula. This helps suspend other ingredients (like oils or powders), prevents separation, and gives the product a pleasant, non-greasy feel.

Pros

Improves texture

Creates a smooth, silky feel that makes products easy to spread and absorb quickly.

Enhances stability

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

Cons and cautions

Synthetic origin

Derived from petroleum-based acrylic acid, which may not align with natural or eco-conscious preferences.

No active benefit

Does not hydrate, soothe, or treat skin; its role is purely cosmetic in improving product feel.

Best for

  • Anyone who prefers lightweight, non-greasy textures
  • People using products that need to stay mixed (e.g., sunscreens, serums)

Use caution if

  • Those seeking only natural or plant-based ingredients
  • Individuals with known sensitivity to acrylates (rare)

Usage tips

Look for it in gel-based moisturizers or lightweight sunscreens for a non-sticky finish.
If you prefer natural formulations, check for alternatives like xanthan gum or aloe vera gel.

Safety summary

Polyacrylate-37 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. Rare allergic reactions may occur in individuals sensitive to acrylates.

Research notes

Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that acrylate polymers like Polyacrylate-37 are safe in cosmetic formulations at current usage levels. No significant human or environmental toxicity has been reported.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 2%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU (CosIng), and many other regions. No known restrictions at typical use levels.
Common uses
Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Gels, Masks
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate.

Good to know

  • Polyacrylate-37 is often used alongside other acrylate polymers to fine-tune texture.
  • It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used in typical cosmetic concentrations.

Common questions

What is Polyacrylate-37 in beauty products?

Polyacrylate-37 is a synthetic ingredient that acts like a thickening agent in skincare. It helps turn watery liquids into smooth gels or creams, making products easier to apply and more stable over time. It doesn't actively treat skin concerns but improves the texture and feel of your products.

What does Polyacrylate-37 do in a beauty product?

When added to water, Polyacrylate-37 swells and forms a network that increases the viscosity of the formula. This helps suspend other ingredients (like oils or powders), prevents separation, and gives the product a pleasant, non-greasy feel.

Is Polyacrylate-37 safe for most people?

Polyacrylate-37 is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. Rare allergic reactions may occur in individuals sensitive to acrylates.

Who should be careful with Polyacrylate-37?

Those seeking only natural or plant-based ingredients Individuals with known sensitivity to acrylates (rare)

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Acrylate Polymers SafetyOpenCosIng - Polyacrylate-37OpenPubChem - PolyacrylateOpen

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.