What Is Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2?
Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2 is a lab-made polymer created by linking together small building-block molecules derived from acrylic acid, methacrylic acid and Ceteareth-20, then crosslinking them with diallyl maleate to form a stable three-dimensional network. The result is a white powder or thick gel that swells in water or solvents and can trap oils, pigments or active ingredients.
This class of acrylic copolymers first gained popularity in the late 1980s when formulators looked for multi-tasking thickeners that worked well in both water-based and oil-in-water emulsions. The addition of the Ceteareth-20 side chain gave the material extra affinity for oils, making it easier to stabilize creams and lotions without waxy heaviness.
Manufacturers produce it in closed reactors where the monomers are mixed, polymerized under heat and pressure then neutralized, washed and dried. Strict filtering removes traces of unreacted monomers, leaving a high-purity cosmetic-grade powder.
You will most often see Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2 in moisturizers, sunscreens, anti-aging serums, peel-off masks, liquid foundations, hair styling creams and rinse-off scrubs. It is prized for giving products a smooth, cushiony texture while keeping the formula from separating over time.
Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient offers several practical benefits to modern formulations:
- Bulking agent – Adds substance and body so lightweight liquids feel richer and more luxurious on skin or hair
- Chelating – Binds trace metals found in water or raw materials, helping prevent discoloration, rancidity or unwanted reactions with actives
- Emulsion stabilising – Keeps oil and water phases evenly mixed, reducing the risk of separation in creams and lotions and extending shelf life
- Opacifying – Gives a soft, opaque appearance that can mask air bubbles and enhance the visual appeal of gels and lotions
- Viscosity controlling – Thickens formulas in a predictable way, allowing chemists to create everything from fluid serums to dense masks without greasy waxes
Who Can Use Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2
This polymer is generally compatible with all major skin types including oily, combination, dry and even most sensitive skin because it is chemically inert and used at low levels. Those with a known allergy to acrylic polymers or polyethylene glycols should proceed with caution since the ceteareth side chain belongs to the PEG family.
The material is made entirely from petroleum derived or plant synthetic compounds so it contains no animal sourced ingredients, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
No data point to specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse off or leave on cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skin or hair care routine with a qualified health professional to be safe.
Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2 is not known to cause photosensitivity and does not react with sunlight so it will not increase the likelihood of sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2 can vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation especially on compromised or very reactive skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to acrylic polymers or PEG compounds
- Eye stinging if the raw powder or a high level gel comes into direct contact with the eyes
- Temporary build up on hair shafts which may leave a dull film if shampoos are not used to remove residue
- Clogged pores in rare cases when used in very heavy, occlusive formulas on acne prone skin
If any redness, itching or other negative reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2 is a large, water-swellable polymer that mostly sits on the surface rather than slipping into pores. It is used at low concentrations and has a lightweight, non-greasy feel, so it rarely traps oil the way heavy butters or waxes can. Occasional reports of clogged pores tend to come from very rich formulas packed with several occlusive ingredients where this polymer is only a small part of the story. For that reason it earns a low comedogenic score of 1.
Acne-prone users generally tolerate it well, although those extremely sensitive to any film-forming agent may still prefer to limit leave-on products that feel overly heavy.
Because the ingredient rinses away easily with standard cleansing, any residual film can be removed before it has the chance to mix with sebum and debris.
Summary
Acrylates/Ceteareth-20 Methacrylate Crosspolymer-2 works as a bulking agent, chelator, emulsion stabiliser, opacifier and viscosity controller. Its crosslinked acrylic backbone soaks up water to build thickness while the Ceteareth-20 side chains anchor to oil droplets, locking water and oil together for smooth, stable creams. The polymer network scatters light, lending an attractive soft-focus look, and its ability to bind trace metals protects sensitive actives from degradation.
It is a mid-tier workhorse ingredient: not as famous as hyaluronic acid or dimethicone yet found in plenty of moisturisers, sunscreens, foundations and styling creams where reliable texture is a must.
Safety data show it to be non-sensitising and non-toxic at typical cosmetic levels, though rare irritation can occur in those allergic to acrylics or PEGs. As with any new product it is smart to run a quick patch test before diving into full-face or scalp use just to make sure your skin agrees with the formula.