Ingredient review
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3
INCI: Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3
A reliable synthetic thickener that gives a smooth, non-greasy feel, but offers no active skin benefits.
In plain English
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3 is a synthetic ingredient that helps give skincare products a smooth, lightweight gel texture. It acts like a sponge that absorbs and holds water, so the product feels silky and spreads easily without being sticky or greasy. It doesn't actively treat skin concerns, but it makes the product pleasant to use and helps other ingredients stay mixed together.
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-3 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-3.
- 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 polymer made from acrylic acid that is crosslinked to form a three-dimensional network. It is produced in a lab and is not derived from natural sources.
How it works
When added to water, the polymer particles swell and create a gel-like network. This network thickens the formula, stabilizes emulsions (keeping oil and water mixed), and gives a smooth, non-tacky feel upon application. It also helps suspend insoluble particles like pigments or sunscreen actives.
Pros
Smooth, silky feel
Creates a velvety, non-sticky texture that makes products pleasant to apply and wear under makeup.
Stabilizes formulas
Helps keep oil and water mixed and prevents separation, so the product stays consistent throughout use.
Cons and cautions
No active skin benefit
This ingredient only affects texture and stability; it does not hydrate, soothe, or treat any skin condition.
Synthetic origin
Derived from petroleum-based acrylic acid, which may be a concern for those seeking natural or eco-friendly formulations.
Best for
- Anyone who prefers lightweight, non-greasy gel textures
- People with oily or combination skin looking for a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those seeking only natural or plant-derived ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. It is well-tolerated by most skin types and is not associated with significant safety concerns when used in properly formulated products.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that polyacrylate crosspolymers are safe for use in cosmetics. Most available data focus on general polymer safety rather than specific clinical benefits for skin.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets. Generally recognized as safe when used as intended.
- Common uses
- Gel moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Makeup primers
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in very small amounts and is not known to accumulate in the environment.
Good to know
- Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3 is very similar to other crosspolymer thickeners like Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 or -11, differing mainly in the degree of crosslinking.
- It is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations by major regulatory bodies.
Common questions
What is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3 in beauty products?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3 is a synthetic ingredient that helps give skincare products a smooth, lightweight gel texture. It acts like a sponge that absorbs and holds water, so the product feels silky and spreads easily without being sticky or greasy. It doesn't actively treat skin concerns, but it makes the product pleasant to use and helps other ingredients stay mixed together.
What does Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3 do in a beauty product?
When added to water, the polymer particles swell and create a gel-like network. This network thickens the formula, stabilizes emulsions (keeping oil and water mixed), and gives a smooth, non-tacky feel upon application. It also helps suspend insoluble particles like pigments or sunscreen actives.
Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3 safe for most people?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3 has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. It is well-tolerated by most skin types and is not associated with significant safety concerns when used in properly formulated products.
Who should be careful with Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-3?
Those seeking only natural or plant-derived 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.