What Is Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer?
Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic ingredient made by linking together two acrylic-based building blocks: ammonium acryloyl dimethyltaurate and carboxyethyl acrylate. These chains are then fastened to each other with a small bridging molecule called trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, creating a three-dimensional network known as a crosspolymer. The result is a lightweight, white powder that swells in water and forms smooth gels.
The material was developed in the early 2000s as chemists looked for gentler, more versatile alternatives to older thickening agents like carbomer. Thanks to advances in polymer science, manufacturers learned how to fine-tune the ratio of its building blocks, giving formulators a stable thickener that works over a wide pH range and feels silky on the skin.
Production starts with controlled laboratory reactions where the acrylic monomers are mixed, initiated, and crosslinked under strict temperature and purity standards. After the reaction, the polymer is purified, dried, and milled into a uniform powder that easily disperses in water-based systems.
You will often spot this ingredient in gels, serums, moisturizers, sheet mask essences, sunscreens, makeup primers, and anti-aging creams. Because it can hold oils and water together while keeping formulas light, it is popular in modern “weightless” textures and quick-absorb lotions.
Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its main role in skincare and makeup is viscosity control, which brings several practical perks to a formula. By swelling in water and trapping tiny pockets of liquid, the polymer thickens a product without making it heavy. This allows brands to create crystal-clear gels that glide on smoothly, stay put instead of running, and deliver an even layer of active ingredients. It also improves suspension of pigments or exfoliating beads so they do not settle at the bottom of the bottle, and it helps stabilize emulsions, reducing the risk of separation over time.
Who Can Use Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
This polymer is considered gentle enough for all skin types, including oily, dry, combination, sensitive and mature skin. Because it is lightweight and non-occlusive it will not trap excess oil on acne-prone skin and it does not draw out moisture from already dry skin.
The ingredient is entirely synthetic, made without any animal-derived matter, so it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
No data show any risk specific to pregnancy or breastfeeding. The molecule stays on the surface of the skin, does not penetrate deeply and is not known to interfere with hormones. Still, this is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before adding new products to a routine.
Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but they are rare and most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Transient itching if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to acrylic polymers (extremely uncommon)
If any discomfort or visible reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a large water-loving molecule that stays on the surface of the skin and forms a breathable film rather than an oily plug. It contains no fatty acids, waxes or heavy oils that could block pores, so it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score.
Because of this, the ingredient is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne and breakouts.
Its low usage levels in a formula (often under 1 percent) further reduce any chance of pore clogging, even when layered with richer emulsifiers or silicones.
Summary
Ammonium Acryloyl Dimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a modern synthetic thickener that swells in water to build a light gel network, controlling viscosity, suspending particles and keeping oil-in-water emulsions stable. By holding tiny pockets of water inside its three-dimensional mesh it gives products a smooth cushiony glide without heaviness.
While not as ubiquitous as long-standing carbomers the polymer is gaining traction in clear gels, weightless moisturizers and elegant sunscreens because formulators appreciate its broad pH tolerance and silky feel.
Safety data show it is non-comedogenic, non-sensitizing and unlikely to penetrate living skin, making it a low-risk choice for nearly all users. As with any new skincare product it is still wise to perform a small patch test to rule out individual sensitivities.