Ingredient review
VA/Crotonates/Methacryloxybenzophenone-1 Copolymer
INCI: VA/CROTONATES/METHACRYLOXYBENZOPHENONE-1 COPOLYMER
A synthetic polymer that helps sunscreen and makeup stay put longer, especially in water or sweat.
In plain English
This ingredient is a plastic-like polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on the skin. It's added to sunscreens and makeup so they don't wash off easily when you sweat or go swimming. Think of it as a clear, invisible shield that helps the product stay in place.
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
VA/Crotonates/Methacryloxybenzophenone-1 Copolymer 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 VA/Crotonates/Methacryloxybenzophenone-1 Copolymer.
- 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 copolymer made from vinyl acetate, crotonic acid, and a UV-absorbing benzophenone derivative. It's designed to create a water-resistant film on the skin.
How it works
When applied, the polymer dries into a continuous, flexible film that physically locks sunscreen filters or pigments onto the skin. The benzophenone part also absorbs some UV light, adding a minor sun-protection boost, but its main job is film formation.
Pros
Boosts water resistance
Helps sunscreens stay effective longer during swimming or sweating, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
Improves makeup longevity
Keeps foundation and mascara from smudging or fading throughout the day, even in humid conditions.
Cons and cautions
Can feel drying
The film may create a slight tightness on the skin, which some people find uncomfortable, especially if they have dry skin.
Requires thorough removal
Because it's water-resistant, you'll likely need an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to fully remove it, or you risk clogged pores.
Best for
- People who need long-lasting sunscreen for outdoor activities
- Anyone wanting waterproof or sweatproof makeup
Use caution if
- Those with very dry or sensitive skin who find film-formers uncomfortable
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. The polymer-bound benzophenone has low skin penetration, minimizing systemic exposure. Some individuals may experience mild tightness or irritation if they have very sensitive skin.
Research notes
Studies show effective water resistance and UV absorption when formulated in sunscreens. No significant safety concerns have been raised by regulatory panels like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR).
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The benzophenone component is polymer-bound, which reduces skin absorption concerns.
- Common uses
- Sunscreens, Long-wear foundations, Waterproof mascara, Lip products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable. However, it is used in small amounts and is not known to bioaccumulate.
Good to know
- The benzophenone part is bound into the polymer, so it doesn't penetrate the skin like free benzophenone-3 (oxybenzone).
- This ingredient is often listed near the end of an INCI because it's used at low concentrations.
Common questions
What is VA/Crotonates/Methacryloxybenzophenone-1 Copolymer in beauty products?
This ingredient is a plastic-like polymer that forms a thin, flexible film on the skin. It's added to sunscreens and makeup so they don't wash off easily when you sweat or go swimming. Think of it as a clear, invisible shield that helps the product stay in place.
What does VA/Crotonates/Methacryloxybenzophenone-1 Copolymer do in a beauty product?
When applied, the polymer dries into a continuous, flexible film that physically locks sunscreen filters or pigments onto the skin. The benzophenone part also absorbs some UV light, adding a minor sun-protection boost, but its main job is film formation.
Is VA/Crotonates/Methacryloxybenzophenone-1 Copolymer safe for most people?
Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations. The polymer-bound benzophenone has low skin penetration, minimizing systemic exposure. Some individuals may experience mild tightness or irritation if they have very sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with VA/Crotonates/Methacryloxybenzophenone-1 Copolymer?
Those with very dry or sensitive skin who find film-formers uncomfortable
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.