What Is Acrylates Crosspolymer-6?
Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 is a man-made acrylic resin created by joining small acrylic acid molecules into a large three-dimensional network. The raw building blocks come from common petrochemical feedstocks that are purified, mixed with water, then polymerized in a controlled reactor to form a fine, white powder. This powder swells when it touches water or other liquids, turning into a clear, jelly-like texture that is easy to spread.
The ingredient was developed in the early 2000s as an upgrade to older carbomer thickeners. Chemists wanted something that kept formulas clear, stayed stable when salts or plant extracts were added and felt lighter on the skin. Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 checked all those boxes, so it quickly found its way into mainstream beauty products.
You will spot it in lightweight gels, hydrating serums, sheet mask essences, peel-off masks, sunscreens, anti-aging creams, micellar cleansers, spot treatments and even some hair styling gels. Any product that needs a crystal-clear look, a silky glide or a bouncy gel texture can benefit from this versatile polymer.
Acrylates Crosspolymer-6’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators lean on Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 for two key reasons:
- Skin Conditioning – When it swells in water it traps moisture, giving formulas a smooth cushioned feel that leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated after application
- Viscosity Controlling – It thickens watery mixtures into stable gels, keeps oils and actives evenly suspended and prevents formulas from separating, which means products spread evenly and stay pleasant to use from the first pump to the last
Who Can Use Acrylates Crosspolymer-6
Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 is considered gentle enough for all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin because it is inert and does not penetrate deeply. People with very reactive or allergy-prone skin can usually tolerate it but should still pay attention to the full ingredient list in case other components are problematic.
The polymer is entirely synthetic and contains no animal-derived materials so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 is used topically in normal cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all skincare products with a health professional to be on the safe side.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common actives such as vitamin C, retinoids or exfoliating acids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to skincare ingredients can differ. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 is formulated correctly and used as directed.
- Temporary redness: Mild flushing immediately after application, usually disappears quickly
- Itching or stinging: Short-lived tingling or itch in people with very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis: Localized rash or swelling in rare cases of true allergy to acrylic polymers
- Eye irritation: Watery eyes or mild burning if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 is a large, water-swelling molecule that sits on the skin surface rather than seeping into pores. It contains no oils or fatty acids so it does not feed acne-causing bacteria or clog follicles. For this reason it earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale and is considered suitable for people who are prone to breakouts. Because the polymer acts mainly as a texture enhancer there are no hidden interactions that would quietly raise its clogging potential.
Summary
Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 conditions skin by swelling in water and holding onto that moisture, creating a smooth cushioned feel. At the same time its three-dimensional network thickens watery mixtures, keeping actives and oils evenly dispersed so formulas stay clear and stable from first use to last pump. The ingredient appears in many modern gels, serums and sunscreens, especially those that need a crystal look and a weightless glide, although it is not a household name like hyaluronic acid.
Current safety data shows it is non-sensitising, non-comedogenic and generally well tolerated when used as directed. Still, skin is personal so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Acrylates Crosspolymer-6 before adding it to a daily routine.