Ingredient review
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2
INCI: SODIUM ACRYLATES CROSSPOLYMER-2
A reliable synthetic thickener that gives skincare products a silky, non-sticky feel without clogging pores or causing irritation.
In plain English
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 is a man-made ingredient used to thicken water-based formulas and turn them into smooth gels or creams. It helps other ingredients mix together evenly and gives products a light, silky texture that doesn't feel heavy or sticky on the skin. Think of it as the ingredient that makes your favorite gel moisturizer feel so nice to apply.
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 Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 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 Acrylates Crosspolymer-2.
- 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 (a large molecule made of repeating units) that is crosslinked to form a network. It is produced through chemical polymerization of acrylic acid derivatives and is designed to absorb water and swell, creating a gel-like consistency.
How it works
When added to water, the polymer particles absorb liquid and expand, forming a three-dimensional network that thickens the formula. This network also helps suspend other ingredients (like oils or powders) and stabilizes emulsions, preventing separation. The result is a smooth, uniform product with a pleasant, non-greasy feel.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Creates a silky, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly, making it ideal for gel-based products and daytime use.
Low irritation potential
Generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin, with very low reported irritation or allergy rates.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
As a man-made polymer, it may not appeal to consumers seeking natural or organic ingredient lists.
Potential tackiness
If used at too high a concentration or with certain other ingredients, it can leave a slightly sticky or tacky residue.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys lightweight gel moisturizers or serums
- People with oily or combination skin looking for a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those who prefer 100% natural or organic skincare formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant health concerns have been identified in standard safety assessments.
Research notes
Safety data for this specific polymer is limited in public literature, but it is closely related to other acrylate crosspolymers that have been reviewed and deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel. Its function as a thickener and stabilizer is well-established in formulation science.
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 concentration restrictions are typically imposed, but manufacturers follow good formulation practices.
- Common uses
- Gels, Serums, Creams, Lotions, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it may not be biodegradable. However, it is used in very small amounts and is not known to accumulate in the environment at concerning levels.
Good to know
- Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 is often used alongside other thickeners to fine-tune texture.
- It is considered safe for use in leave-on and rinse-off products by major regulatory bodies.
Common questions
What is Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 in beauty products?
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 is a man-made ingredient used to thicken water-based formulas and turn them into smooth gels or creams. It helps other ingredients mix together evenly and gives products a light, silky texture that doesn't feel heavy or sticky on the skin. Think of it as the ingredient that makes your favorite gel moisturizer feel so nice to apply.
What does Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 do in a beauty product?
When added to water, the polymer particles absorb liquid and expand, forming a three-dimensional network that thickens the formula. This network also helps suspend other ingredients (like oils or powders) and stabilizes emulsions, preventing separation. The result is a smooth, uniform product with a pleasant, non-greasy feel.
Is Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 safe for most people?
Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low skin irritation and sensitization potential, and no significant health concerns have been identified in standard safety assessments.
Who should be careful with Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2?
Those who prefer 100% natural or organic skincare 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.