Ingredient review
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11
INCI: Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11
A safe, synthetic thickener that gives water-based products a silky, lightweight feel without clogging pores.
In plain English
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 is a synthetic ingredient that helps skincare and makeup products feel smooth and silky. It works by absorbing water and swelling into tiny gel particles, which thicken the formula and give it a light, non-greasy texture. Think of it like a sponge that soaks up liquid and turns it into a soft gel. It also helps keep ingredients evenly mixed and can create a thin, breathable film on your skin that makes makeup last longer or helps serums feel more elegant.
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 Crosspolymer-11 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 Crosspolymer-11.
- 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 acrylic acid monomers that are crosslinked to form a three-dimensional network. It is produced through controlled polymerization and is designed to be stable and consistent in cosmetic formulations.
How it works
When added to water, the polymer particles swell and form a clear or translucent gel. This increases the viscosity (thickness) of the product, giving it a desirable texture. It also helps stabilize emulsions by preventing oil and water from separating, and it can form a thin, flexible film on the skin that provides a smooth finish without feeling heavy or sticky.
Pros
Silky, lightweight feel
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 gives water-based products a smooth, velvety texture that glides on without feeling heavy or sticky, making it ideal for daytime serums and primers.
Excellent stability
It helps keep oil and water mixed together, preventing your lotion or sunscreen from separating over time, so the product stays effective and consistent from first use to last.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Because it is made in a lab from acrylic acid, it may not appeal to people who prefer naturally derived ingredients or follow a 'clean beauty' philosophy.
Potential tackiness at high levels
If a formula uses too much of this polymer, it can leave a slightly sticky or tacky residue on the skin, which some users find uncomfortable.
Best for
- Anyone who prefers lightweight, non-greasy textures in serums or gels
- People with oily or combination skin looking for a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients in their skincare
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and comedogenic potential. It is not absorbed through the skin and is considered non-toxic in cosmetic use. Allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that polyacrylate polymers are safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. No significant human or environmental toxicity has been reported in peer-reviewed literature.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the U.S. FDA (as a cosmetic ingredient) and under EU CosIng regulations. No concentration restrictions are typically imposed.
- Common uses
- Gels, Serums, Creams, Sunscreens, Makeup primers
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable in the traditional sense. However, it is used in very small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate. Some manufacturers are exploring bio-based alternatives.
Good to know
- Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 is often used in 'oil-free' and 'matte' products because it doesn't add any greasy feel.
- It is considered safe by major cosmetic safety panels and is widely used in both drugstore and luxury brands.
Common questions
What is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 in beauty products?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 is a synthetic ingredient that helps skincare and makeup products feel smooth and silky. It works by absorbing water and swelling into tiny gel particles, which thicken the formula and give it a light, non-greasy texture. Think of it like a sponge that soaks up liquid and turns it into a soft gel. It also helps keep ingredients evenly mixed and can create a thin, breathable film on your skin that makes makeup last longer or helps serums feel more elegant.
What does Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 do in a beauty product?
When added to water, the polymer particles swell and form a clear or translucent gel. This increases the viscosity (thickness) of the product, giving it a desirable texture. It also helps stabilize emulsions by preventing oil and water from separating, and it can form a thin, flexible film on the skin that provides a smooth finish without feeling heavy or sticky.
Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 safe for most people?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and comedogenic potential. It is not absorbed through the skin and is considered non-toxic in cosmetic use. Allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Who should be careful with Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11?
Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients in their skincare
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.