What Is Butyl Acrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer?
Butyl Acrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer is a man-made ingredient created by linking together butyl acrylate units with glycol dimethacrylate. The result is a stable network, or “crosspolymer,” that behaves like tiny sponge-like particles. Because it is synthetic, the material is not harvested from plants or animals but is produced in a controlled factory setting. It entered the cosmetic scene in the late 1990s when formulators were looking for lightweight fillers that could soak up oil yet form a flexible film on skin.
Manufacturing starts with liquid monomers of butyl acrylate and glycol dimethacrylate. Using heat and a catalyst, chemists trigger a reaction that binds the monomers into a three-dimensional structure. Once cured, the solid polymer is milled into a fine powder ready for creams, gels or sprays.
You will most often see this ingredient in mattifying primers, long-wear foundations, setting powders, peel-off masks, sunscreen formulations and certain hair styling products where oil control and lasting coverage are key.
Butyl Acrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This crosspolymer pulls double duty in beauty formulas
- Absorbent: Its porous structure soaks up excess oil and sweat, helping products feel lighter while keeping skin looking fresh and matte for longer periods
- Film forming: Once applied it lays down a thin flexible layer that locks the formula in place. This boosts wear time, improves water resistance and helps pigments stay even without cracking or flaking
Who Can Use Butyl Acrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer
This ingredient suits most skin types but really shines on oily and combination skin because it mops up excess sebum and keeps shine at bay. Normal skin can usually handle it without trouble. People with very dry or highly sensitive skin might find it a bit too oil-absorbing, which could leave their face feeling tight or slightly parched, so they may want to use it only in targeted areas such as the T-zone.
Because Butyl Acrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer is completely synthetic and contains no animal-derived components, it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No research suggests a special risk for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when this ingredient is applied topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have a quick chat with a healthcare professional before adding a new product to their routine.
The polymer does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Always remember that the rest of the formula, such as added exfoliating acids or retinoids, could still boost sun sensitivity, so check the full ingredient list of any product.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Butyl Acrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild dryness or tightness due to excess oil absorption
- Temporary skin irritation such as slight redness or itching, typically in very sensitive individuals
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as rash or hives
- Eye irritation if loose powder accidentally gets into the eyes during application
- Respiratory irritation if large amounts of airborne powder are inhaled while applying loose formulations
If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Butyl Acrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer is a large, porous particle that sits on the surface of skin rather than melting into pores. It does create a flexible film, yet that film is breathable and non-occlusive so it is very unlikely to trap sebum or dead cells. Because it is oil-free and primarily functions as an absorbent powder, its potential to clog pores is considered extremely low, earning it a 1 instead of a perfect 0 only because any film former could, in theory, build up if layered heavily.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most cases.
As with many powders, the risk of pore blockage rises only when a product is not removed thoroughly at the end of the day, so proper cleansing is still important.
Summary
Butyl Acrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer acts mainly as an oil-absorbing sponge and a flexible film former. Its micro-porous structure draws in excess sebum while its polymer network spreads into an invisible mesh that anchors makeup pigments and boosts water resistance. This dual action keeps skin looking matte and helps cosmetics last longer without cracking or sliding.
The ingredient is moderately popular, popping up most often in mattifying primers, long-wear foundations and some hair styling sprays though it is not as ubiquitous as traditional silicones or talc.
Current data shows it is safe for topical use with a very low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Still, skin can be unpredictable so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains this polymer before full-face use.