What Is Acrylonitrile/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer?
Acrylonitrile/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer is a man-made polymer created by linking acrylonitrile with glycol dimethacrylate. When these two small molecules are joined through a controlled reaction they form a stable three-dimensional network. The finished material looks like fine, lightweight beads or powder that feels silky when rubbed between the fingers.
The polymer was first explored in the late twentieth century as chemists searched for new oil-absorbing materials that would stay on skin without feeling heavy. As concerns grew about traditional plastic microbeads, suppliers refined the production process to make the particles more uniform and easily biodegradable, which paved the way for broader cosmetic use.
Manufacturing starts with purified acrylonitrile and glycol dimethacrylate placed in a reactor along with an initiator that sparks polymerization. Temperature and pH are carefully controlled so the growing chains crosslink at regular points, creating a porous structure that can trap oils or water. The resulting solid is washed, dried then milled to the desired particle size.
You will most often spot this ingredient in mattifying primers, oil-control foundations, setting powders, clay or cream masks, blotting lotions and some long-wear eye or lip products. Its ability to bind other ingredients means it also appears in pressed powders and solid face balms where it helps everything hold together.
Acrylonitrile/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile polymer supports a formula in several helpful ways:
- Absorbent: The porous particles soak up excess sebum and sweat, giving skin a fresh matte look and helping makeup last longer without midday shine.
- Binding: It acts like a glue that keeps pigments, fillers and other powders evenly dispersed, which prevents cracking in pressed products and improves the smoothness of creams.
- Film Forming: Once applied it creates a flexible, invisible film that helps lock active ingredients on the skin surface, boosts water resistance and reduces transfer onto clothes or masks.
Who Can Use Acrylonitrile/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer
This ingredient suits most skin types. Oily and combination skin often benefit the most because the polymer can pick up surplus oil and keep shine at bay. Normal skin usually tolerates it well. Very dry skin might find long term use a bit dehydrating since the particles can pull away surface moisture so pairing it with a richer cream can help. Sensitive skin generally does fine because the polymer is inert and fragrance free, though anyone prone to redness should still keep an eye on how their skin feels.
The polymer is fully synthetic and produced without animal by-products so it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No research points to problems for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in topical products. The particles are too large to enter the bloodstream so systemic exposure is minimal. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new products, just to be safe.
Acrylonitrile/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not classed as a photosensitizer. General sun protection habits still apply whenever you are outdoors.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Acrylonitrile/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The points below outline possible but unlikely issues. When the ingredient is used correctly in a finished formula most people will not notice any problems.
- Mild surface dryness skin may feel tight if the product absorbs too much natural oil
- Temporary flaking occasionally seen on very dry areas after repeated use
- Light itching or redness rare sensitivity response especially on compromised skin barriers
- Eye irritation if loose powder containing the ingredient gets into the eyes
If you experience any discomfort stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Comedogenic rating: 1/5
The insoluble polymer beads stay on the surface, absorb excess sebum and are too large to lodge inside pores, which keeps the clogging risk low. A slight chance of trapping debris under the thin film they create keeps the score from being a perfect zero.
Generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.
Overall pore-clogging potential depends on the entire formula, so a very heavy or greasy base could override this ingredient’s low rating.
Summary
Acrylonitrile/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer acts as an absorbent, binder and film former. Its porous network drinks up oil and sweat, its crosslinked structure holds powders together and the lightweight veil it leaves behind improves wear and resists transfer.
While not a household name like silica it is gaining traction in mattifying primers, oil-control foundations and long-wear eye or lip colors where a silky feel and staying power matter.
Current research deems it safe for topical use with minimal irritation or comedogenic concerns. Even so it is wise to patch test any new product that features this polymer before applying it to the whole face.