What Is Acrylates Crosspolymer-4?
Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 is a synthetic powder created by joining acrylic acid and methacrylic acid (or their simple esters) then crosslinking the chain with trimethylolpropane triacrylate. The result is a three-dimensional network that swells in water or certain solvents, giving formulas a light gel texture. This material does not come from plants or animals; it is made in controlled factory settings using standard polymerization techniques that convert liquid monomers into a solid, high-molecular-weight polymer. After the reaction, the polymer is filtered, washed and dried into a fine white powder that disperses easily when added to water phases or pre-blends.
The beauty industry adopted this ingredient in the late 1990s as brands looked for safer, non-sticky alternatives to carbomer and other thickening agents. Because Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 can stabilize challenging emulsions, it quickly found a place in lightweight lotions, sunscreens, all-in-one cleansers and even high-water serums. Today you will see it in face and body moisturizers, sheet mask essences, exfoliating gels, anti-aging creams, micellar waters and rinse-off scrubs where clarity, smooth glide and a fresh finish are priorities.
Acrylates Crosspolymer-4’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking polymer improves both the feel and stability of many skincare and makeup formulas
- Emulsion stabilising: Keeps oil and water phases evenly mixed so creams stay smooth over time, preventing separation in hot or cold storage
- Film forming: Leaves behind an invisible, flexible layer that locks in moisture, enhances spreadability and helps actives stay on the skin longer
- Cleansing: Assists surfactants by trapping dirt and makeup particles in rinse-off products, boosting overall cleansing power without harshness
- Viscosity controlling: Builds thickness or creates a soft gel texture at low use levels, allowing formulators to fine-tune how quickly a product pours, pumps or spreads
Who Can Use Acrylates Crosspolymer-4
Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 is considered suitable for most skin types, including oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin, because it is non comedogenic, has no fragrance of its own and usually sits on the surface without penetrating deeply. Those with extremely dry or compromised skin may want to pair it with extra emollients, since the light film it forms does not supply much moisture on its own.
The polymer is made entirely from synthetic building blocks with no animal derived materials, so products that rely on it can be labeled vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Current safety data shows no reason pregnant or breastfeeding women need to avoid Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 when it is used at the very low levels found in cosmetics. The ingredient is not known to absorb into the bloodstream, but this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should clear every product with a healthcare professional first.
The polymer does not increase photosensitivity. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended, yet there is no special need to avoid sunlight because of Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 itself. The ingredient is also odorless and gluten free, making it a quiet team player in formulas aimed at sensitive users.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet unlikely for most users when the ingredient has been correctly blended into a well formulated product.
- Transient stinging or tingling when applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Mild redness or itching in individuals who are allergic to acrylic compounds
- Dry or tight feeling if the product lacks adequate moisturizers
- Watery eyes or slight eye irritation if the formula accidentally gets into the eyes
- Very rare cases of contact dermatitis documented in people with sensitivity to related polymers
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a medical professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 – 1
Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 is a large, water-swellable molecule that sits on the skin’s surface rather than seeping into pores, so it is very unlikely to trap oil or dead cells. It is normally used at low concentrations, further reducing any clogging risk. For these reasons formulators and dermatology references classify it at the bottom of the comedogenic scale.
Because of this near-zero rating the ingredient is generally considered safe for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
The only time pore issues might arise is when the polymer is combined with heavy occlusive oils or waxes that already have higher comedogenic scores, in which case the finished product’s overall formula should be assessed, not the polymer alone.
Summary
Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 thickens water phases, stabilises oil-in-water emulsions, forms a light moisture-holding film and boosts cleansing systems by suspending debris until rinsed away. It does this by swelling into a three-dimensional gel network when hydrated, which gives formulas body and keeps ingredients evenly dispersed.
The polymer has become popular in modern skincare and sun care because it delivers a fresh, non-sticky feel at a fraction of the dose required for older thickeners. You will spot it in everything from micellar water to lightweight moisturisers, though it is less common in rich balms where heavy waxes do the thickening job.
Current safety reviews show it to be low risk, non sensitising and suitable for all skin types when used as directed. As with any new cosmetic product it is wise to patch test first to rule out individual sensitivities.