Ingredient review
Polyacrylate-44
INCI: Polyacrylate-44
A synthetic film-former that helps products spread smoothly and stay put, but offers no active skincare benefit.
In plain English
Polyacrylate-44 is a synthetic polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. Think of it like a very light, invisible plastic wrap that helps makeup or sunscreen stay in place longer and resist water or sweat. It also helps products feel silky and spread evenly. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's purely a texture and performance helper.
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
Polyacrylate-44 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 Polyacrylate-44.
- 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 belonging to the acrylate family, designed to form a continuous film when applied to skin.
How it works
When applied, the polymer chains spread out and link together as the water or solvent evaporates, leaving a thin, flexible film. This film helps other ingredients (like pigments or UV filters) adhere to the skin, improves water resistance, and gives a smooth, even finish.
Pros
Boosts wear time
Helps makeup and sunscreen stay put for hours, even in humidity or water exposure.
Improves texture
Gives a silky, smooth feel that makes products easier to apply and more pleasant to use.
Cons and cautions
No skin benefit
It's a performance ingredient only—it doesn't hydrate, soothe, or repair the skin.
Potential tightness
On very dry or sensitive skin, the film can feel slightly tight or uncomfortable, especially if layered under heavy makeup.
Best for
- Anyone wanting long-wearing makeup or water-resistant sunscreen
- People with normal to oily skin who prefer a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or compromised skin barriers who may find film-formers uncomfortable
- Anyone strictly avoiding all synthetic polymers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyacrylate-44 is considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Research notes
Safety data is based on general acrylate copolymer assessments. No specific long-term human studies exist, but the ingredient has a long history of safe use in cosmetics. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar acrylate copolymers and found them safe as used.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA (US) and EU CosIng database, with no concentration restrictions.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Foundations, Mascaras, Long-wear makeup
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate significantly.
Good to know
- Polyacrylate-44 is often used alongside silicones to create a 'second skin' feel.
- It is considered non-comedogenic for most skin types, but patch test if you are prone to clogged pores.
Common questions
What is Polyacrylate-44 in beauty products?
Polyacrylate-44 is a synthetic polymer that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin. Think of it like a very light, invisible plastic wrap that helps makeup or sunscreen stay in place longer and resist water or sweat. It also helps products feel silky and spread evenly. It doesn't treat or improve your skin—it's purely a texture and performance helper.
What does Polyacrylate-44 do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer chains spread out and link together as the water or solvent evaporates, leaving a thin, flexible film. This film helps other ingredients (like pigments or UV filters) adhere to the skin, improves water resistance, and gives a smooth, even finish.
Is Polyacrylate-44 safe for most people?
Polyacrylate-44 is considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory bodies.
Who should be careful with Polyacrylate-44?
Those with very dry or compromised skin barriers who may find film-formers uncomfortable Anyone strictly avoiding all synthetic polymers
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.