Ingredient review
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7
INCI: POLYACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER-7
A safe, synthetic thickener that helps create a smooth, silky texture in skincare products without clogging pores.
In plain English
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 is a synthetic ingredient that acts like a thickening and film-forming agent. It helps give lotions and creams a smooth, silky feel and can help other ingredients spread evenly on your skin. Think of it as a texture helper that makes your moisturizer feel nice and stay put without being greasy.
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-7 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-7.
- 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. It is produced through controlled chemical reactions and is widely used in cosmetics for its ability to thicken and stabilize formulas.
How it works
When added to water, the polymer chains swell and form a gel-like network, increasing the viscosity of the product. This helps suspend other ingredients, prevent separation, and create a smooth, non-sticky feel on the skin. It also forms a thin, flexible film that can help lock in moisture.
Pros
Smooth texture
Creates a silky, non-greasy feel that makes products pleasant to apply and wear.
Low irritation risk
Rarely causes skin reactions, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Derived from petroleum-based chemicals, which may not align with natural skincare preferences.
Potential tackiness
In high concentrations, it can leave a slightly sticky or tacky residue on the skin.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer texture
- People with oily or combination skin who prefer matte finishes
Use caution if
- Those seeking 100% natural or organic formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 is considered safe for topical use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant toxicity concerns have been reported in cosmetic concentrations.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that polyacrylate crosspolymers are safe in cosmetics. Studies show minimal skin penetration and low acute toxicity.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU CosIng database. Generally recognized as safe at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Serums, Sunscreens, Makeup
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in the environment. Some manufacturers are exploring bio-based alternatives.
Good to know
- Often combined with other polymers to fine-tune texture.
- Commonly found in gel-cream formulas for a lightweight feel.
Common questions
What is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 in beauty products?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 is a synthetic ingredient that acts like a thickening and film-forming agent. It helps give lotions and creams a smooth, silky feel and can help other ingredients spread evenly on your skin. Think of it as a texture helper that makes your moisturizer feel nice and stay put without being greasy.
What does Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 do in a beauty product?
When added to water, the polymer chains swell and form a gel-like network, increasing the viscosity of the product. This helps suspend other ingredients, prevent separation, and create a smooth, non-sticky feel on the skin. It also forms a thin, flexible film that can help lock in moisture.
Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 safe for most people?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 is considered safe for topical use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, and no significant toxicity concerns have been reported in cosmetic concentrations.
Who should be careful with Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7?
Those seeking 100% natural or organic formulations
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.