What Is Acrylates/C12-13 Alkyl Methacrylates/Methoxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer?
Acrylates/C12-13 Alkyl Methacrylates/Methoxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic film-forming ingredient created by linking together several acrylic-based monomers, notably C12-13 alkyl methacrylate and methoxyethyl acrylate, then crosslinking them with vinyloxazoline to form a three-dimensional network. This network gives the material its flexible, water-resistant character. The raw materials are derived from petroleum feedstocks that are first refined into smaller building blocks such as acrylic acid, which chemists then modify and polymerize in controlled reactors. Crosslinking locks the chains into place, turning a runny mixture into a stable fine powder or viscous gel that disperses easily in water or alcohol.
The rise of modern styling products in the 1980s spurred demand for polymers able to hold hair in place without stiffness or flaking. Manufacturers experimented with different side-chain lengths, discovering that medium-chain (C12-13) alkyl groups strike a balance between flexibility and humidity resistance. Adding methoxyethyl acrylate further improved clarity and spreadability, making the resulting crosspolymer a popular choice in formulations where a lightweight, brushable hold is desired.
Today the ingredient appears most often in hair gels, mousses, styling creams, sprays and waxes. Its film-forming ability can also support texture in certain brow gels, edge tamers and temporary hair-color products. Although primarily used for hair, the polymer occasionally shows up in long-wear eyebrow pens and mascara bases to boost adhesion and water resistance.
Acrylates/C12-13 Alkyl Methacrylates/Methoxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This crosspolymer serves a single but important purpose in cosmetic formulas: hair fixing. By forming a thin, flexible film around each strand it helps lock a style in place, resists humidity that can cause frizz, adds a light sheen and allows restyling without noticeable residue or flaking. The result is lasting hold that feels natural rather than crunchy, making it especially valued in modern lightweight styling products.
Who Can Use Acrylates/C12-13 Alkyl Methacrylates/Methoxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Because this ingredient is a large film-forming polymer it sits on top of skin and hair rather than soaking in so it is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive. It is not known to clog pores or aggravate acne and has no alcohol or fragrance of its own that could sting reactive skin. People with a history of allergies to acrylic resins or adhesives should proceed with extra caution since the chemistry is related.
The material is fully synthetic and produced without any animal-derived feedstocks or processing aids so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No data show particular risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the polymer is used in normal cosmetic concentrations. Nonetheless this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any new hair or skincare product past a qualified healthcare provider just to be safe.
The crosspolymer does not absorb UV light so it does not make skin or hair more sensitive to sunlight. It is also odorless and colorless which makes it unlikely to interfere with fragrance or dye in a formula.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Acrylates/C12-13 Alkyl Methacrylates/Methoxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The points below cover potential issues but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild scalp or skin irritation
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to acrylic or methacrylate compounds
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Respiratory irritation when inhaling aerosol sprays containing the polymer
- Product buildup on hair leading to dullness or flaking if not washed out regularly
If you experience redness itching or any other uncomfortable reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0‒1
Acrylates/C12-13 Alkyl Methacrylates/Methoxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a large, water-dispersible film former that stays on the surface of hair and skin rather than penetrating pores. It contains no fatty acids or oily residues that could block follicles, so the likelihood of clogging pores is extremely low. For this reason formulators generally regard it as non-comedogenic or at worst minimally comedogenic, hence the 0‒1 score.
Because of its low pore-clogging potential the ingredient is considered suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that the overall comedogenicity of any finished product also depends on the other ingredients, especially waxes, oils and silicones that might accompany the polymer in styling creams or gels.
Summary
Acrylates/C12-13 Alkyl Methacrylates/Methoxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is used mainly as a hair-fixing agent. It forms a thin, flexible film around each strand that locks styles in place, fights humidity and delivers a natural, brushable feel without flaking. The polymer’s balanced side chains give it the right mix of hold, clarity and water resistance that stylists and consumers look for.
While not the flashiest ingredient on an INCI list, it shows up in countless gels, mousses, sprays and brow products because it quietly does its job and plays well with fragrances, colorants and other styling aids.
Safety data show a low risk of irritation or sensitization for most users, and its large molecular size keeps it from clogging pores. Still, everyone’s skin is different so it is smart to patch test any new product containing this polymer before full use.