What Is Acrylamide/Isopropylacrylamide Crosspolymer?
Acrylamide/Isopropylacrylamide Crosspolymer is a synthetic network of tiny molecules created by linking acrylamide units with isopropylacrylamide units. The result is a lightweight, water-friendly polymer that swells when it comes into contact with moisture. First explored in the late 1990s as a way to improve the texture of skin care formulas, it soon became popular because it combines a smooth feel with strong water-binding ability.
Manufacturers start with pure acrylamide and isopropylacrylamide monomers, then add a small bridging agent called methylenebisacrylamide. Under heat and controlled pH the monomers join together, forming long chains that cross-link into a three-dimensional net. After the reaction finishes the polymer is filtered, washed to remove leftover monomers and dried into a fine powder that easily disperses in water or a water-and-glycerin blend.
You will most often see Acrylamide/Isopropylacrylamide Crosspolymer in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, refreshing face mists, soothing after-sun gels and eye creams that aim to reduce the look of fine lines. It is also used in some makeup primers and setting sprays where a silky touch and moisture retention are needed.
Acrylamide/Isopropylacrylamide Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient has one main job in skin care: it is a humectant. As a humectant it attracts water from the environment and holds it at the skin’s surface, helping formulas deliver and lock in hydration. By keeping water inside the upper layers of skin it can make the complexion look plumper, smoother and more radiant while reducing the feeling of tightness that often comes with dryness.
Who Can Use Acrylamide/Isopropylacrylamide Crosspolymer
This water-loving polymer suits almost every skin type including oily, combination, normal and dry. Its lightweight feel and non-greasy finish make it comfortable for acne-prone or sensitive skin as well, as it does not clog pores or leave an occlusive film. There are no specific skin types that should avoid it unless an individual has a known allergy to acrylamide-based materials, which is extremely rare.
The ingredient is entirely synthetic and contains no animal-derived substances, so it is considered suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Current safety data show no reproductive or developmental concerns for topical use, so products containing this polymer are generally viewed as acceptable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare routine with a qualified healthcare provider to be extra safe.
Acrylamide/Isopropylacrylamide Crosspolymer does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and has no known impact on the effectiveness of sunscreens or other actives. It is also fragrance free and non-volatile, so it will not trigger photosensitivity or photoallergic reactions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential side effects and, when the polymer is properly formulated and purified, most users will not experience them.
- Mild skin irritation – a temporary sensation of burning or redness, most often linked to very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis – rare, but possible if someone is specifically allergic to acrylamide compounds
- Eye irritation – stinging or watering if the raw powder or a high-concentration product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Contamination concerns – trace residual acrylamide monomer can be irritating or toxic, though reputable manufacturers keep these levels well below safety thresholds
- Transient stickiness – some users notice a slight tacky feel until the product fully dries
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5 (non-comedogenic). This polymer is water-soluble, lightweight and too large to work its way into pores, so it does not create the kind of oily film that can lead to blockages.
It is therefore suitable even for skin that breaks out easily.
Its presence in a formula is unlikely to influence overall pore-clogging potential unless other comedogenic ingredients are also included.
Summary
Acrylamide/Isopropylacrylamide Crosspolymer is used mainly as a humectant, meaning it grabs moisture from the air or the product’s water phase and holds it at the skin’s surface. By swelling with water it plumps the upper layers, smooths texture and leaves a fresh, silky finish without heaviness.
While not as famous as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, it enjoys steady popularity in modern moisturizers, serums and makeup primers because it supplies hydration, cushions actives and improves spreadability in a cost-effective way.
Current research and regulatory reviews consider it safe for topical use. Side effects are rare and usually mild. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a product first to make sure your skin agrees with it.