Ingredient review
Sodium Acrylate Crosspolymer
INCI: SODIUM ACRYLATE/ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/DIMETHYLACRYLAMIDE CROSSPOLYMER
A safe, synthetic thickener that gives gels and creams a smooth, non-sticky feel without clogging pores.
In plain English
This is a synthetic ingredient that helps thicken water-based products like gels and creams. It creates a smooth, silky texture that spreads easily and doesn't feel sticky or heavy on the skin. It's often used in place of natural gums or carbomers to improve the feel of a formula.
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
Sodium Acrylate Crosspolymer 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 Sodium Acrylate Crosspolymer.
- 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 derivatives. It is a crosslinked copolymer that absorbs water and swells, turning a liquid into a gel.
How it works
When added to water, the polymer chains unwind and form a three-dimensional network that traps water molecules. This increases the viscosity of the formula, creating a gel or thickened cream. It also helps stabilize emulsions by preventing oil and water from separating.
Pros
Lightweight texture
Creates a silky, non-greasy feel that absorbs quickly, ideal for gel-based moisturizers and serums.
Stable formulas
Helps keep oil and water mixed together, preventing your product from separating or becoming watery over time.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Made from petrochemicals, which may be a concern for those seeking natural or eco-friendly ingredients.
Potential tackiness
If used at too high a concentration, it can leave a slightly sticky or tacky residue on the skin.
Best for
- Anyone looking for lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers
- People with oily or combination skin who prefer gel textures
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients
- Individuals with known sensitivity to acrylate polymers (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium acrylate crosspolymer is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. Rare allergic reactions are possible but uncommon.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that acrylate crosspolymers are safe in cosmetics at current use levels. No significant toxicity or skin sensitization has been reported in peer-reviewed studies.
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 use levels.
- Common uses
- Gels, Creams, Lotions, Serums, Sunscreens
- 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
- Often used in combination with other thickeners to fine-tune texture.
- Can be used in both rinse-off and leave-on products.
Common questions
What is Sodium Acrylate Crosspolymer in beauty products?
This is a synthetic ingredient that helps thicken water-based products like gels and creams. It creates a smooth, silky texture that spreads easily and doesn't feel sticky or heavy on the skin. It's often used in place of natural gums or carbomers to improve the feel of a formula.
What does Sodium Acrylate Crosspolymer do in a beauty product?
When added to water, the polymer chains unwind and form a three-dimensional network that traps water molecules. This increases the viscosity of the formula, creating a gel or thickened cream. It also helps stabilize emulsions by preventing oil and water from separating.
Is Sodium Acrylate Crosspolymer safe for most people?
Sodium acrylate crosspolymer is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types. Rare allergic reactions are possible but uncommon.
Who should be careful with Sodium Acrylate Crosspolymer?
Those who strictly avoid synthetic ingredients Individuals with known sensitivity to acrylate polymers (rare)
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.