What Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10 is a man-made, crosslinked polymer created by joining trimethoxysilylpropylmethacrylate with trimethyloylpropane trimethacrylate. The result is a three-dimensional network of acrylic units that carry tiny silane groups, giving the material both flexibility and stability in water-based formulas. Because it is synthetic, there is no plant or animal source; instead it comes straight from controlled laboratory production.
The polymer grew out of advances in acrylic chemistry during the late 1990s when formulators wanted thicker yet lighter textures. By the early 2000s suppliers began offering this ingredient to skin-care brands that needed an efficient way to build viscosity without leaving a heavy feel.
Manufacturing starts with purified monomers mixed in a reactor. Heat or light triggers polymerization, locking the monomers into long chains that are then crosslinked. The finished gel-like material is cleaned, dried and milled into a fine powder or delivered as a pre-swollen slurry ready for use.
You will most often find Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10 in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating gels, serums, sheet mask essences, peel-off masks, sunscreens, eye creams, foundations and primers where smooth glide and a clean finish are important.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient mainly serves one purpose in skin-care and makeup formulas.
Solvent: it helps dissolve or keep other ingredients evenly dispersed in a product so the formula stays clear, stable and easy to spread. By creating a uniform mixture it prevents clumping, boosts the feel of actives on the skin and supports a pleasant, non-sticky texture.
Who Can Use Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10
Because it is a gentle, inert polymer with no active drug-like properties, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10 is generally suitable for all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive. Its ability to create light textures without extra oil makes it especially handy for those who break out easily or dislike heavy creams. People with very sensitive or compromised skin should still review full ingredient lists, but this polymer itself is not known to trigger irritation.
The material is entirely synthetic and contains no animal‐derived components, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
No research has flagged Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10 as problematic during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is chemically stable, does not penetrate deeply and is used at low concentrations. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm the safety of any skincare product with a healthcare professional.
The polymer does not absorb UV light or make skin more reactive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitising.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10 can differ. The points below outline potential side effects that have been reported or are theoretically possible, yet they remain uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin redness or warmth
- Temporary stinging on very sensitive or broken skin
- Contact dermatitis in people allergic to acrylate compounds
- Eye irritation if the raw powder is mishandled during manufacturing
Discontinue use and seek medical advice if irritation or discomfort develops while using a product that contains Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10 is a large, water-loving molecule that sits on the surface of the skin rather than seeping into pores. It is used at very low levels, adds no oils or waxes and leaves behind an airy, non-occlusive film, all of which make clogged pores unlikely. For this reason it is generally considered safe for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
The ingredient does not interact with sebum, does not form an impermeable barrier and is easily rinsed away with normal cleansing, so there are no special concerns about buildup over time.
Summary
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10 works mainly as a solvent helper and texture enhancer, keeping ingredients evenly dispersed while lending a smooth, lightweight feel to gels, lotions and makeup. Its three-dimensional acrylic network stabilises water-based formulas so they stay clear and pleasant to spread.
While not the most famous polymer on the market, it shows up quietly in many modern moisturisers, sunscreens and serums that aim for a fresh, non-greasy finish. Formulators appreciate that it offers reliable performance without adding heaviness.
Current data shows the ingredient is low risk, non-sensitising and non-comedogenic when used as directed. Still, skin is individual so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-10 to confirm personal tolerance.