Ingredient review
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5
INCI: SODIUM HYALURONATE CROSSPOLYMER-5
A next-generation hyaluronic acid that clings to skin longer for sustained hydration and a smoother look, with very low irritation risk.
In plain English
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 is a souped-up version of hyaluronic acid. Regular hyaluronic acid is like a sponge that soaks up water but can wash away quickly. This crosspolymer version links many hyaluronic acid molecules together into a larger network, so it stays on the skin's surface longer, holds more moisture, and provides a gentle plumping effect without feeling sticky. It's especially good for dry or dehydrated skin because it keeps delivering hydration over time.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
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
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 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 Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5.
- 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 chemically modified form of sodium hyaluronate (the salt form of hyaluronic acid) where individual molecules are crosslinked into a larger polymer network. The '5' refers to a specific degree of crosslinking, which affects its molecular weight and water-binding capacity.
How it works
When applied to the skin, the crosspolymer forms a thin, flexible film that adheres to the surface. Because the molecules are linked together, they don't penetrate deeply but instead sit on top, drawing moisture from the air and deeper skin layers into the upper layers. This film also helps reduce water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL — the amount of water that evaporates from your skin), keeping skin hydrated for longer than non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid.
Pros
Extended hydration
The crosslinked structure holds water longer than regular hyaluronic acid, so your skin stays hydrated for hours after application.
Gentle on skin
With a very low irritation risk, this ingredient is well-tolerated even by sensitive or reactive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Possible tackiness
In higher concentrations or if applied on dry skin, it can leave a slightly sticky or film-like feel that some people dislike.
Needs layering
It's a humectant, not an occlusive — you still need a moisturizer on top to lock in the hydration it brings.
Best for
- People with dry or dehydrated skin looking for a hydration boost that lasts
- Those with sensitive skin who want a gentle humectant without irritation
Use caution if
- People who prefer a completely matte, non-tacky finish may find the film feel undesirable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 is considered very safe for topical cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the scientific literature. As with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with extremely sensitive skin.
Research notes
Studies on crosslinked hyaluronic acid derivatives show improved skin hydration and reduced water loss compared to non-crosslinked forms. While direct clinical trials on Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 are limited, the broader class of crosspolymer hyaluronates is well-supported for cosmetic use.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use globally, including by the U.S. FDA and the European Commission. No known restrictions.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Eye Creams, Sheet Masks
- Environmental note
- Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 is typically produced via biotechnological fermentation, which is more sustainable than animal-derived hyaluronic acid. It is biodegradable and not known to accumulate in the environment.
Good to know
- The '5' in the name indicates a specific crosslinking density, but all versions work similarly for skin hydration.
- This ingredient is often used in 'hyaluronic acid complex' formulations that combine multiple molecular weights for multi-depth hydration.
Common questions
What is Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 in beauty products?
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 is a souped-up version of hyaluronic acid. Regular hyaluronic acid is like a sponge that soaks up water but can wash away quickly. This crosspolymer version links many hyaluronic acid molecules together into a larger network, so it stays on the skin's surface longer, holds more moisture, and provides a gentle plumping effect without feeling sticky. It's especially good for dry or dehydrated skin because it keeps delivering hydration over time.
What does Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, the crosspolymer forms a thin, flexible film that adheres to the surface. Because the molecules are linked together, they don't penetrate deeply but instead sit on top, drawing moisture from the air and deeper skin layers into the upper layers. This film also helps reduce water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL — the amount of water that evaporates from your skin), keeping skin hydrated for longer than non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid.
Is Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 safe for most people?
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5 is considered very safe for topical cosmetic use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant safety concerns have been reported in the scientific literature. As with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with extremely sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-5?
People who prefer a completely matte, non-tacky finish may find the film feel undesirable
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.