What Is Acrylates/Hydroxypropyl Epoxidized Soybean Oil Copolymer?
Acrylates/Hydroxypropyl Epoxidized Soybean Oil Copolymer is a film-forming ingredient made from soybeans. Chemists start with soybean oil and treat it with oxygen to create epoxidized soybean oil. They then react this with propylene glycol, which adds “hydroxypropyl” groups that help the oil link up with acrylic building blocks. Finally, the treated soybean oil is combined with acrylic or methacrylic monomers and polymerized, turning the mix into a smooth flexible copolymer.
The idea of blending plant oils with acrylics gained traction in the late 1990s when formulators were looking for greener ways to create sturdy yet comfortable films on skin and hair. Soybean oil was attractive because it is renewable, widely available, and carries a low scent profile. Over time the process was refined to balance plant-based content with reliable performance, which opened the door for its use in cosmetics.
Today you will most often find Acrylates/Hydroxypropyl Epoxidized Soybean Oil Copolymer in products that need a thin breathable shield: facial masks, long-wear makeup, brow gels, styling creams, hand creams, and certain anti-aging or soothing treatments that promise lasting protection. Its main job is to sit on top of the skin or hair, holding everything in place without feeling tight or heavy.
Acrylates/Hydroxypropyl Epoxidized Soybean Oil Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient has one primary role that delivers several practical benefits in everyday formulas.
As a film former it spreads over the surface of skin or hair and dries into an invisible flexible layer. This light film helps lock in moisture, improve product wear time, reduce smudging, add a soft touch finish, and protect against environmental factors like wind or light pollution. Because the film is flexible it moves with the skin so users get hold and durability without flaking or cracking.
Who Can Use Acrylates/Hydroxypropyl Epoxidized Soybean Oil Copolymer
Because it dries down to a lightweight breathable film, this copolymer generally suits dry, normal and combination skin. Oily or very acne prone complexions can usually tolerate it too though some may feel the extra film adds an unwanted layer if they already struggle with excess sebum. Sensitive skin tends to do well since the ingredient is non-fragrant and has a low irritation profile, yet anyone with a known soy allergy should use caution as trace protein fragments could remain after processing.
The raw material is sourced from soybeans and reacted with synthetic acrylic building blocks yet contains no animal derived substances making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data shows no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically and in the low percentages found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should discuss all personal care products with a healthcare professional before use just to be safe.
The copolymer does not increase photosensitivity so routine daytime use does not require extra sun precautions beyond a normal SPF habit.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Acrylates/Hydroxypropyl Epoxidized Soybean Oil Copolymer can vary between individuals. The points below outline potential but uncommon effects most people will not experience when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
- Contact dermatitis in those with heightened sensitivity to acrylic polymers
- Allergic reaction in people with a soy allergy
- Temporary clogged pores or breakouts in very oily skin types
- Eye stinging if the product migrates into the eyes before fully drying
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Although the polymer starts with soybean oil, the epoxidation and acrylic copolymerization drastically reduce its oily character and penetration into pores. The resulting molecule sits on the surface as a lightweight film rather than seeping into follicular openings, so the clogging potential is very low. This makes it generally acceptable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Because formulas vary, extremely oily skin could still notice a slight occlusive feel, but the risk remains minimal compared to untreated plant oils.
No reports suggest that the ingredient feeds acne-causing bacteria, and it is typically used at low concentrations, further lowering the chance of pore blockage.
Summary
Acrylates/Hydroxypropyl Epoxidized Soybean Oil Copolymer is primarily a film former that smooths over skin or hair, locks in moisture, improves product wear time and shields against environmental stress. It achieves this by creating a thin flexible layer that moves with the surface it covers without flaking or feeling heavy.
The ingredient is moderately popular, showing up most in long-wear makeup, brow gels and select leave-on skin treatments. It is not as ubiquitous as classic synthetic film formers like PVP, yet formulators appreciate its partial plant origin and balanced performance.
Current data shows it is safe for topical use in the concentrations found in cosmetics, with low irritation and allergen potential except for individuals highly sensitive to soy or acrylics. As with any new product, it is wise to patch test first to confirm personal compatibility.