What Is Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate?
Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate is a lab-made ester derived from acrylic acid that has been joined with a butylcarbamate group. Chemists created this molecule to act as a reliable binder in water-based and oil-in-water cosmetic formulas. It does not come from plants or animals but is produced through a controlled reaction where acrylic acid is first activated then linked to a butylcarbamate segment, forming a stable resin-like compound. The ingredient gained attention in the early 2000s when formulators looked for alternatives to traditional film formers that sometimes felt stiff on skin. Today it shows up in sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, long-wear foundations, anti-aging serums and hair styling creams because it helps other ingredients stick together and stay put on the skin or hair.
Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves one main purpose in beauty products and that single role offers several practical perks for both the formula and the user.
Binding: As a binder it keeps pigments, emollients and active ingredients evenly dispersed so the product does not separate in the jar or slide off the skin after application. The result is a smoother texture, better color payoff in makeup and longer-lasting wear that resists sweat or light rubbing.
Who Can Use Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate
This binder is considered skin friendly for most skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination since it does not add oil or strip moisture. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it as well because it sits on the surface rather than penetrating deeply, though anyone highly reactive to synthetic resins should stay cautious.
The ingredient is fully synthetic and contains no animal derived material so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences.
Current data shows no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics. Still this is not medical advice and expecting or nursing mothers should confirm any product with their doctor to be safe.
Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate is not known to cause photosensitivity so it does not make skin more vulnerable to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection practices remain important but no extra precautions are needed because of this ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate differ from person to person. The following points outline potential but uncommon effects when the ingredient is used as intended in cosmetic formulas. Most users will not notice any of these issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to acrylic or carbamate compounds
- Transient stinging on broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If an unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate is a lightweight film-forming binder that does not add oils, waxes or fatty acids that can clog pores. Its large resin-like molecules sit on the surface then rinse away easily, leaving little residue behind. No published data link it to increased comedone formation, so it is classed as non-comedogenic.
Because of this rating it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
The only caveat is that some products combine this ingredient with heavier emollients or silicones, so check the full ingredient list if you are highly pore-clogging sensitive.
Summary
Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate acts mainly as a binder and film former, keeping pigments, actives and moisturizers evenly mixed and helping the finished product grip the skin or hair for longer wear. It achieves this by forming a thin flexible network on the surface that resists water and light friction without feeling stiff.
It is a niche ingredient rather than a headline star, appearing quietly in long-wear foundations, sheet masks and certain hair creams where formulators want staying power without heaviness.
Current research and cosmetic-use data show it to be low risk for irritation, non-sensitizing for most users and non-comedogenic when used at typical percentages. Still, skin is personal so it is always smart to patch test any new product containing Acryloyloxyethyl Butylcarbamate before full-face use.