What Is Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/Hema Crosspolymer-2?
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/HEMA Crosspolymer-2 is a modern synthetic polymer created by linking together several smaller building blocks: beheneth-25 methacrylate, HEMA and acrylic or methacrylic acid units. These pieces are chemically “cross-stitched” with a special diallyl ether so the final material forms a three-dimensional network. The main raw ingredients come from petroleum-derived feedstocks combined with fatty alcohols sourced from vegetable oils such as rapeseed or coconut, giving the polymer both water-loving and oil-loving sections.
The beauty industry started exploring these crosspolymers in the late 1990s when formulators needed lightweight film formers that could resist humidity yet feel comfortable on skin and hair. Advances in polymer chemistry allowed manufacturers to fine-tune the ratio of the different monomers, resulting in Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/HEMA Crosspolymer-2 becoming a reliable choice for styling products and skin care.
Production involves controlled free-radical polymerization in large stainless-steel reactors. Each monomer is added in set amounts, the reaction is heated then neutralized, and the thick gel-like polymer is filtered and dried into a powder or fluid concentrate that can be easily dispersed in water or alcohol when a product is made.
You will most often spot this ingredient in hair gels, mousses, styling creams, long-wear mascaras, liquid eyeliners, setting sprays, light facial moisturizers and some mattifying primers. Its balanced structure lets it blend smoothly into both clear and opaque formulas without clouding or clumping.
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/Hema Crosspolymer-2’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking polymer offers several practical perks in everyday beauty products:
- Emulsion stabilising – Helps oil and water stay mixed so creams and lotions keep a uniform texture during shelf life and use
- Film forming – Dries to a flexible, invisible film that boosts water resistance and wear time of makeup and hair products
- Hair fixing – Provides hold and shape control without a heavy or crunchy feel making it ideal for modern flexible-hold styling lines
- Viscosity controlling – Thickens formulas in a predictable way allowing brands to create gels, serums or sprays that spread evenly yet stay where applied
Who Can Use Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/Hema Crosspolymer-2
This polymer is generally well tolerated by all skin types including oily, dry, normal and combination skin because it sits on the surface and does not penetrate deeply. Sensitive skin users usually do fine with it too, although very reactive skin may prefer formulas with lower polymer levels to avoid a tight feel.
The ingredient is synthetic and sourced from petrochemicals and plant-derived fatty alcohols so it contains no animal by-products. That makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product is also certified cruelty free.
Current safety data show no reproductive or developmental concerns with topical use, so products containing this polymer are considered compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have their healthcare professional review any cosmetic routine to be safe.
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/HEMA Crosspolymer-2 does not increase photosensitivity. Sunscreen is still recommended daily but there is no need for extra sun precautions beyond normal good practice.
The polymer is also odorless and non-volatile so it is unlikely to trigger fragrance sensitivities or airborne allergies.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/HEMA Crosspolymer-2 vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin tightness
- Temporary flaking or peeling if applied in thick layers
- Low-grade redness or irritation in individuals with very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis in the rare event of an allergy to acrylate polymers
- Build-up on hair leading to dullness if cleansing is inadequate
If any uncomfortable reaction develops discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 (very low)
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/HEMA Crosspolymer-2 is a large, water-dispersible polymer that sits on the surface and is easily washed off. Because it cannot seep into pores or mix with skin sebum its tendency to clog pores is minimal. Formulas that rely on this polymer usually feel light rather than greasy which further lowers the risk of breakouts.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the rest of the formula is also low in pore-clogging ingredients.
People using very occlusive makeup or layering multiple long-wear products might notice build-up over time, so thorough cleansing at the end of the day is still important.
Summary
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate/HEMA Crosspolymer-2 works as an emulsion stabilizer, film former, hair fixative and viscosity controller. Its three-dimensional polymer network thickens water-based systems, helps oil and water stay blended, lays down a flexible film that adds hold or water resistance, and keeps gels or creams at the right consistency.
It enjoys steady popularity in modern styling products, long-wear makeup and lightweight skincare though it is not a headline ingredient that consumers actively seek out.
The safety profile is strong with low irritation and a very low comedogenic rating. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test a finished product before full use just to be safe.