What Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14 is a lab made polymer created by linking together acrylic acid with several fatty methacrylates like lauryl, cetyl and stearyl methacrylate, plus a moisture friendly unit called phosphorylcholine glycol methacrylate. These building blocks are then crosslinked with an allyl ether of pentaerythritol, forming a three dimensional network that swells in water and traps oil droplets. Born out of advances in polymer chemistry during the 1990s, it was developed as a gentler, more versatile alternative to older thickening agents such as traditional carbomers. Manufacturing starts with controlled free radical polymerisation of the monomers, followed by precise crosslinking and purification to remove residues, yielding a fine white powder that quickly hydrates when blended into water phases.
Because of its ability to thicken and stabilise emulsions at low use levels, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14 shows up in an array of leave on and rinse off products. You will find it in lightweight moisturisers, gel creams, serums, sheet mask essences, sunscreens, hair styling gels, anti aging treatments and even some colour cosmetics where a smooth, non sticky feel is needed.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker improves both the texture and stability of personal care formulas.
- Emulsion stabilising: Keeps the oil and water parts of a product blended so the cream or lotion stays uniform from the first pump to the last, preventing runny layers or watery drips and giving a silky finish
- Viscosity controlling: Builds body and thickness even at low concentrations, helping chemists turn a watery mix into a rich cream or clear gel that spreads evenly, clings where applied and suspends actives, beads or pigments
Who Can Use Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14
This texture enhancer is considered gentle enough for all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin because it sits on the surface and is not biologically active. It is non occlusive and non greasy so even acne-prone or easily congested skin usually tolerates it well. At typical use levels there are no known concerns for any particular skin type.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14 is a fully synthetic polymer that contains no animal derived components so products relying on it as a thickener can be suitable for vegetarians and vegans, provided the rest of the formulation is free from animal ingredients.
Current ingredient safety data do not flag any issues for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Nonetheless this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a qualified healthcare professional before adding new skincare to their routine.
The polymer does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known influence on photosensitivity treatments or medications.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14 differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects although they are rarely experienced when the ingredient is used correctly in finished products.
- Mild redness or irritation: Very sensitive skin may notice transient flushing or discomfort, usually due to the overall formula rather than the polymer itself
- Contact dermatitis: In uncommon cases an individual could develop a localized allergic response characterised by itching, swelling or rash
- Eye stinging: If a product containing high levels of the polymer accidentally gets into the eyes temporary watering or stinging can occur
- Product pilling: Though not a medical reaction, layering too many silicone or polymer rich products can cause them to roll off the skin which some users perceive as a negative effect
If any irritation or other adverse effect develops discontinue use and seek advice from a medical professional or pharmacist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5. Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14 is considered non-comedogenic because its large, water-swellable polymer structure stays on the skin’s surface, is not oily and is used at very low concentrations. It does not penetrate pores or form an occlusive film that could trap sebum and debris.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with any texture agent the overall formula matters: if the product also contains rich oils or waxes those ingredients, not the polymer itself, are more likely to influence clogging potential.
Summary
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14 works mainly as an emulsion stabiliser and viscosity controller. It hydrates in water to create a three-dimensional gel network that thickens the formula, suspends droplets or particles and keeps oil and water phases evenly mixed so textures stay smooth and uniform from first use to last.
While carbomers still dominate thickening duties this newer polymer has gained steady popularity for delivering lighter, silkier textures at lower doses which appeals to modern gel creams, serums and sunscreens.
Safety reviews rate it as low risk for irritation or sensitisation across all skin types. Even so it is smart to patch test any new product containing Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-14 to confirm personal compatibility before regular use.