What Is Methacrylic Acid/Peg-6 Methacrylate/Peg-6 Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer.?
Methacrylic Acid/PEG-6 Methacrylate/PEG-6 Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer. is a lab-made ingredient that starts with methacrylic acid, a small acrylic molecule, and PEG-6, a short chain of polyethylene glycol. Chemists link these parts together to create a large network, or “crosspolymer,” that behaves like a flexible mesh. This mesh sits on the skin and forms a thin, invisible layer. The ingredient first appeared in cosmetic research in the late 1990s when brands were searching for lightweight film formers that could replace heavier resins. It is produced through a controlled reaction called free-radical polymerization, where the methacrylate pieces are joined and crosslinked in large stainless-steel reactors, then purified and dried into a fine powder. You will usually find this crosspolymer in products that need a smooth, long-lasting finish, such as makeup primers, tinted moisturizers, peel-off masks, hair styling gels, long-wear foundations, sunscreens and certain anti-aging serums.
Methacrylic Acid/Peg-6 Methacrylate/Peg-6 Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer.’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for the following function in personal care formulas
- Film forming: it creates a breathable layer on skin or hair that locks in active ingredients, boosts water resistance, improves product wear time and leaves a soft, velvety finish without a heavy feel
Who Can Use Methacrylic Acid/Peg-6 Methacrylate/Peg-6 Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer.
This crosspolymer is considered gentle and lightweight, making it broadly suitable for dry, oily and combination skin. Because it forms a breathable film and contains no oils or fragrances it is usually well tolerated by sensitive skin too. People with a known allergy to acrylates should avoid it as a precaution since it belongs to that chemical family.
The material is fully synthetic and contains no animal derivatives so it is compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
No data show any particular risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetic amounts. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products to a routine.
The ingredient does not make skin more prone to sunburn and has no known photosensitizing effect. It can even boost the water resistance of sunscreens by helping them stay in place.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to Methacrylic Acid/PEG-6 Methacrylate/PEG-6 Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer. differ from person to person. The points below list potential reactions only and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild temporary skin irritation
- Redness or itching in individuals allergic to acrylates
- Stinging sensation if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- In very rare cases contact dermatitis requiring medical attention
- May increase the staying power of other actives so any irritant in the same formula could linger longer on skin
If any discomfort or visible irritation occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (low likelihood of clogging pores)
This crosspolymer sits on the surface as a lightweight mesh rather than sinking into follicles, plus its PEG backbone attracts water and keeps the film flexible, both factors that reduce pore blockage. It contains no oils or waxes commonly linked to breakouts.
Because of its low rating most people prone to acne should tolerate it, though the overall formula still matters. A heavy cream loaded with rich emollients can override the low comedogenicity of this single ingredient.
One extra note: by forming a long-wear film it may trap other ingredients underneath, so if the rest of the product includes pore-clogging agents those could linger longer on the skin.
Summary
Methacrylic Acid/PEG-6 Methacrylate/PEG-6 Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer. is mainly used as a film former that creates a breathable, flexible layer enhancing water resistance, wear time and a smooth feel in makeup, skincare and hair products. The acrylic segments give strength while the PEG-6 parts add flexibility and slip, so together they spread easily then lock in place as the solvents evaporate.
It is not as famous as classic silicones or newer silicone elastomers, yet formulators who need a clear, lightweight and vegan film former reach for it regularly, so you will spot it in long-wear cosmetics and sports sunscreens.
Overall safety data show low irritation potential and a very low risk of clogging pores or triggering acne. As with any new product do a small patch test before full-face use to make sure your skin agrees with the whole formula.