What Is Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/Peg-6 Methacrylate Crosspolymer?
Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/PEG-6 Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a lab-made polymer created by linking together several smaller building blocks. Chemists start with melamine, treat it with glutaral, then add 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid and PEG-6 methacrylate. A final dose of melamine helps lock the network into a three-dimensional structure. Because every strand is connected, the finished material behaves like a soft sponge in water or gel formulas.
Melamine chemistry has been used for decades in plastics and coatings, but around the early 2000s formulators realized that a crosslinked version blended with modern acrylic and PEG units could help stabilize personal care products. Since then the ingredient has shown up in everyday items such as facial moisturizers, lightweight lotions, hydrating masks, sunscreens, eye creams and hair styling gels.
During manufacturing the raw monomers are mixed in water, activated with heat or a gentle catalyst, and cured until the web-like polymer forms. The gel is then neutralized, filtered and dried or kept as an aqueous dispersion that can be poured straight into cosmetic batches.
Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/Peg-6 Methacrylate Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin and hair care formulas this ingredient is valued for one key job: binding. It grabs onto water, oils and other particles, holding them together so the final product feels smooth, stays uniform and does not separate over time. That binding power also helps create pleasant textures, from silky lotions to bouncy gels, giving consumers a stable product that feels good on application.
Who Can Use Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/Peg-6 Methacrylate Crosspolymer
This polymer is generally considered gentle enough for all skin types including dry, oily and combination skin because it sits on the surface and does not penetrate deeply. Sensitive skin users usually tolerate it well since it has no fragrance or active acids, though anyone with a known allergy to melamine-based materials should be cautious.
The ingredient is synthetic and made without animal by-products so it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Current safety data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the polymer is used at the low levels found in cosmetics. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review all skincare products with a qualified healthcare professional.
The polymer does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also non-reactive with common actives like vitamin C, retinoids and sunscreens so it can be layered easily within a routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/PEG-6 Methacrylate Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The following are potential reactions only and are unlikely to occur for most users when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild skin irritation or redness
- Transient stinging on application, especially on broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to melamine derivatives
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Build-up or flaking in hair products if used in very high concentrations
If any discomfort or unusual reaction occurs discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
This polymer is a large, water-loving molecule that sits on the skin’s surface and does not sink into pores. It has no oily or waxy parts that could clog follicles, and it is used at very low levels in finished products. For these reasons it is considered non-comedogenic.
Because it earns a 0, people who are prone to acne or breakouts can usually use products containing this ingredient without worry.
Formulas that pair the polymer with heavy plant butters or oils may still feel rich, so always look at the whole ingredient list if you are monitoring pore-clogging risks.
Summary
Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate/Melamine/PEG-6 Methacrylate Crosspolymer is mainly a binder and texture helper. It grabs water, oils and actives, holding them together so creams stay smooth, gels remain bouncy and sunscreen filters stay evenly spread. By locking everything in place it also improves shelf life and gives a pleasant feel on application.
The ingredient has a quiet but steady presence in skin care. It is not a trendy buzzword, yet formulators reach for it when they need reliable stability without greasiness.
Safety studies and long-time use show a low risk of irritation or allergy for most people, and it carries a non-comedogenic rating. Even so, skin can be unpredictable, so it is always smart to patch test any new product that contains this or any other unfamiliar ingredient.