Ingredient review
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
INCI: Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
A reliable synthetic thickener that gives products a silky, non-sticky feel without clogging pores.
In plain English
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 is a synthetic ingredient used to thicken and stabilize skincare products. It helps create a smooth, gel-like texture that feels silky on the skin and doesn't leave a sticky or greasy residue. Think of it as the ingredient that gives your favorite gel moisturizer or serum its pleasant, lightweight consistency.
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-6 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-6.
- 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 monomers that are crosslinked to form a network structure. This network can absorb and hold water, creating a gel.
How it works
When added to a formula, the polymer particles swell and form a three-dimensional network that traps water and other ingredients. This increases the product's viscosity (thickness) and helps keep oil and water phases from separating, ensuring a stable, uniform texture.
Pros
Silky, lightweight feel
Creates a smooth, non-sticky texture that spreads easily and absorbs quickly, making it ideal for gel creams and serums.
Excellent stabilizer
Helps keep oil and water mixed together, preventing your product from separating or changing consistency over time.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Made from petroleum-derived acrylic acid, which may be a concern for those seeking only natural or plant-based ingredients.
Potential tackiness at high levels
If used in very high concentrations, it can leave a slightly sticky or tacky residue on the skin, though this is rare in well-formulated products.
Best for
- Anyone who prefers lightweight, gel-based moisturizers or serums
- People with oily or combination skin looking for non-greasy textures
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients in their skincare routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and comedogenic potential. It is widely used in cosmetics and considered safe at typical concentrations.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that polyacrylate crosspolymers are safe for use in cosmetics. No significant human or environmental toxicity has been reported at intended use levels.
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
- Gels, Serums, Moisturizers, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in very small amounts and is not considered a major environmental concern compared to microplastics.
Good to know
- Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 is considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies.
- It is often used in combination with other thickeners to fine-tune a product's texture.
Common questions
What is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 in beauty products?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 is a synthetic ingredient used to thicken and stabilize skincare products. It helps create a smooth, gel-like texture that feels silky on the skin and doesn't leave a sticky or greasy residue. Think of it as the ingredient that gives your favorite gel moisturizer or serum its pleasant, lightweight consistency.
What does Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 do in a beauty product?
When added to a formula, the polymer particles swell and form a three-dimensional network that traps water and other ingredients. This increases the product's viscosity (thickness) and helps keep oil and water phases from separating, ensuring a stable, uniform texture.
Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 safe for most people?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 has a strong safety profile with very low irritation and comedogenic potential. It is widely used in cosmetics and considered safe at typical concentrations.
Who should be careful with Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6?
Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients in their skincare routine
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.