Ingredient review
Sugar-Based Thickening Polymer
INCI: Sodium Acrylate/Methallylsulfonate/Methoxy PEG-48 Methacrylate/Sucrose Copolymer
A safe, effective thickener that gives gels and creams a smooth, non-sticky feel.
In plain English
This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that helps give skincare products a nice, thick texture. It works by absorbing water and swelling up, which makes the product feel smooth and spread easily without being sticky or 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
Sugar-Based Thickening Polymer 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 Sugar-Based Thickening Polymer.
- 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 large molecule made from several smaller chemical units (acrylates and sucrose) that is designed to thicken water-based formulas.
How it works
When added to water, the polymer chains unwind and absorb water, causing the mixture to become thicker and more gel-like. This also helps keep other ingredients evenly suspended and prevents separation.
Pros
Smooth texture
Creates a silky, non-sticky feel that spreads easily on skin.
Effective stabilizer
Helps keep other ingredients evenly mixed, preventing separation in gels and creams.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Made from petrochemical-derived monomers, which may not suit all preferences.
Potential tackiness
If used at too high a concentration, it can leave a slightly sticky residue.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys lightweight, non-greasy gel textures
- People with oily or combination skin looking for a matte finish
Use caution if
- Those who prefer only natural or plant-derived thickeners
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported.
Research notes
Limited independent studies, but widely used in cosmetics with a long history of safe use. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar acrylate copolymers and found them safe.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 3%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and other major markets. No known restrictions.
- Common uses
- Gels, Serums, Creams, Lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to accumulate in the environment.
Good to know
- This polymer is often used in 'gel-cream' textures that feel lightweight yet hydrating.
- It is compatible with many other ingredients, including active serums and moisturizers.
Common questions
What is Sugar-Based Thickening Polymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a synthetic polymer that helps give skincare products a nice, thick texture. It works by absorbing water and swelling up, which makes the product feel smooth and spread easily without being sticky or greasy.
What does Sugar-Based Thickening Polymer do in a beauty product?
When added to water, the polymer chains unwind and absorb water, causing the mixture to become thicker and more gel-like. This also helps keep other ingredients evenly suspended and prevents separation.
Is Sugar-Based Thickening Polymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported.
Who should be careful with Sugar-Based Thickening Polymer?
Those who prefer only natural or plant-derived thickeners
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.