Ingredient
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
What is Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer?
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic compound often used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is made by polymerizing acrylate esters and modifying the resulting beads with alkyl groups to produce a white, fluffy powder.
It is primarily used as a thickening and stabilizing agent, helping to create smooth textures in lotions, creams, and gels. Some studies suggest it is chemically inert, meaning it typically doesn't react with other ingredients. Health evidence indicates that it is generally considered safe for most people, though individual sensitivities can occur.
When you see it on a label, it’s typically there for textural quality. People with sensitive skin should patch test products containing this ingredient to ensure no adverse reactions.
Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Hair Care, Hand Sanitizer
What to watch
- May cause irritation in sensitive individuals if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
- Improves the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.
This ingredient is permitted for use in cosmetics by the FDA with no specific restrictions.
While generally deemed safe, some research indicates potential irritation, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.
This ingredient is synthetic and not derived from animal sources, aligning with typical vegan standards.
Sources: Cosmetic Ingredient Safety Assessment · Safety Assessment on Acrylates Copolymers
Scout's take
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
The case against
There are minimal risks, though it can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash with Coconut ScentThere are minimal risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Supergoop! Glowscreen Sunrise Hydrating Glowy Tinted Primer Sunscreen with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide - SPF 40The case for
It enhances the texture and stability of the product, ensuring even application.
from the analysis of Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash with Coconut ScentIt enhances the product's texture and provides a smooth application.
from the analysis of Supergoop! Glowscreen Sunrise Hydrating Glowy Tinted Primer Sunscreen with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide - SPF 40More from Scout's analyses
Acrylate microplastic thickener. Persistent in waterways.
from the analysis of Jergens Original Scent Cherry-Almond Body MoisturizerSynthetic polymer film-former — microplastic-adjacent.
from the analysis of Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Refreshing GelSynthetic film-forming polymer; ECHA-classified primary microplastic. Directly contradicts OGX's 'no microplastics' marketing claim.
from the analysis of OGX Nourishing + Coconut Milk ShampooFound in 7 products
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