What Is Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/Peg-6 Methacrylate/Phloroglucinol Crosspolymer?
Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/PEG-6 Methacrylate/Phloroglucinol Crosspolymer is a mouthful of a name for a modern, lab-made ingredient used to give cosmetic formulas the right feel and stability. It begins with phloroglucinol, a plant-derived compound well known in chemistry circles for its three hydroxyl groups. This is first linked with glutaral to start building a flexible backbone. The growing chain then reacts with 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid and PEG-6 methacrylate, adding water-friendly sites that let the final polymer swell and hold onto moisture. Finally melamine, a nitrogen-rich molecule, is woven in to create tight crosslinks that lock the whole structure together.
Crosslinked polymers like this one rose to popularity in the late 1990s when brands looked for alternatives to older thickeners that could feel heavy or break down in the jar. The versatile network created by these chemical steps forms tiny, invisible sponges that trap water, oils and active ingredients so the product stays smooth and uniform from the first scoop to the last.
Because of these stabilizing talents you will find this polymer in lightweight gels, sheet mask serums, anti-aging creams, soothing after-sun lotions, micellar cleansers and even some long-wear foundations. Anywhere a brand wants a silky, non-sticky texture that holds up on the shelf, this ingredient is a reliable choice.
Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/Peg-6 Methacrylate/Phloroglucinol Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care formulas this polymer is prized for one main job: binding. By forming a flexible three-dimensional network it grabs and locks in water, oils and active ingredients. This keeps the product from separating, prevents runny textures and ensures each application delivers the same even dose of beneficial ingredients to the skin.
Who Can Use Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/Peg-6 Methacrylate/Phloroglucinol Crosspolymer
This polymer is considered gentle and lightweight so it suits most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Because it mainly acts as a binder and texture enhancer it does not add oil or clog pores, making it friendly for acne-prone users as well. People with very reactive or allergy-prone skin may still want to watch the full ingredient list of the finished product since any added fragrance or actives could be the real trigger.
The material is fully synthetic and is not sourced from animals which makes it suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. No animal-derived processing aids are typically used in its manufacture.
Current safety data show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare routine past their doctor to be safe.
The polymer does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Regular sun protection is still important for overall skin health but extra precautions are not needed solely because of this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/PEG-6 Methacrylate/Phloroglucinol Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects yet most users will experience none of them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Minor skin irritation – very rare and usually linked to high levels of other actives or fragrance in the same formula
- Redness or itching – typically temporary and subsides after washing the product off
- Contact allergy – extremely uncommon but possible in individuals with multiple polymer sensitivities
- Eye irritation – only if a product containing the polymer accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort, persistent redness or swelling appears stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms do not quickly improve.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5. This polymer is a large, water-loving molecule that stays on the surface rather than seeping into pores and it contains no oils or waxes that could block them. Formulators use it to control texture without adding any greasy residue so it is considered non-comedogenic. In short, it is suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
The only caveat is that the finished product’s overall formula matters more than this single ingredient. Heavy oils, butters or strong actives elsewhere in the recipe can still trigger congestion even if the polymer itself does not.
Summary
Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/PEG-6 Methacrylate/Phloroglucinol Crosspolymer acts mainly as a binder and texture stabilizer. Its crosslinked network traps water and oily components so creams, gels and serums stay smooth and uniform from the first use to the last. Because the network is flexible it leaves a light, silky feel instead of the heaviness older thickeners could bring.
The ingredient is moderately popular with formulators of modern lightweight products but its tongue-twisting name keeps it under the radar for most shoppers. Safety assessments show it is low risk for irritation or sensitization when used as intended, making it a reliable option for nearly all skin types. As with any new skincare product a quick patch test is a smart habit to ensure personal comfort.