What Is Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer?
Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a high-performance silicone-acrylate hybrid created by crosslinking bis-hydroxypropyl dimethicone with acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or their simple esters. The result is a flexible, sponge-like network that marries the smooth feel of silicones with the film-forming power of acrylates. The first versions emerged in the late 1990s when formulators wanted lightweight hold plus conditioning in one ingredient. Manufacturers typically mix the silicone and acrylic monomers, trigger a controlled polymerization reaction, then dry and micronize the finished polymer into a fine powder or pre-disperse it in a carrier fluid for easy use.
You are most likely to spot this ingredient in leave-in hair gels, styling creams, sprays, anti-frizz serums, long-wear foundations, primers, matte or blurring moisturizers and certain sheet masks that aim to create a flexible veil on the skin.
Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This hybrid polymer pulls double duty in both haircare and skincare.
- Hair fixing: It forms a clear, breathable film around strands that delivers soft, flexible hold. The film helps tame flyaways, keeps styles in place through humidity, adds light gloss and resists flaking compared with traditional hairspray resins.
- Skin conditioning: On skin it lays down a silky layer that blurs fine lines, reduces tackiness, controls oil breakthrough and enhances spreadability of pigments. The conditioning film can also boost water resistance so makeup lasts longer without feeling heavy.
Who Can Use Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
This polymer is lightweight and non-occlusive so it tends to work for all skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because the molecule is too large to penetrate deeply but those who have a known sensitivity to silicones or acrylates may prefer to avoid it.
The ingredient is made entirely by synthetic processes and contains no animal-derived raw materials so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians unless the finished product includes other animal ingredients.
No data suggest that Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer poses a risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It sits on the surface and is not expected to reach the bloodstream, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare or haircare product past a qualified doctor just to be safe.
The polymer does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with sunscreen filters. It is also fragrance free, gluten free and alcohol free in its pure form which may be helpful for people monitoring those factors.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues that could occur even though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in well-formulated products.
- Mild skin irritation or redness in individuals allergic to silicones or acrylates
- Contact dermatitis if the polymer is combined with aggressive solvents or high levels of alcohol
- Temporary clogged pores for those extremely prone to acne when heavy, oil-rich formulas are layered on top
- Buildup on hair leading to dullness or limp strands if the product is not cleansed out regularly
- Eye irritation if aerosol sprays containing the polymer are used too close to the eyes
If you notice any discomfort, swelling or persistent irritation stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a large, inert molecule that stays on the surface and does not mix with skin oils, so it is very unlikely to block pores on its own. It creates a thin, flexible film that lets skin breathe and contains no fatty acids known for clogging. The only reason it is not a perfect zero is that some formulas pair it with waxes or heavy emollients that could trap debris if you do not cleanse well.
This makes the ingredient generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
If you are using rich makeup or leave-on products that feature this polymer, make sure you remove them thoroughly at the end of the day because leftover product layers can contribute to congestion over time even when the polymer itself is low risk.
Summary
Acrylates/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone-acrylate hybrid that offers two key perks: soft yet reliable hold for hair and a silky, blurring feel for skin. It does this by forming a clear film that bends with movement while resisting humidity and oil breakthrough.
The polymer is popular in modern styling gels, primers and long-wear makeup because it delivers performance without a heavy finish, although it remains a behind-the-scenes helper rather than a buzzword ingredient on labels.
Current research and decades of safe use show a low risk of irritation, allergy or pore blockage for most people. Still, every skin is different so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains this or any other unfamiliar ingredient before applying it more widely.