Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 24, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer?

Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer is a man-made ingredient created by linking together two small building blocks called monomers: cyclohexyl methacrylate and ethylhexyl methacrylate. When these units join, they form a flexible plastic-like chain known as a copolymer. Because both monomers come from petrochemical sources, the copolymer is fully synthetic.

The cosmetic world began exploring acrylic copolymers in the 1970s as formulators looked for light, undetectable films that could replace heavier waxes. Over time, tweaks in the monomer mix produced ingredients with different textures and staying power. Pairing cyclohexyl methacrylate with ethylhexyl methacrylate gave chemists a balance of grip and softness, making the resulting copolymer useful in beauty products that need a comfortable, invisible coat.

Manufacturing starts with refining crude oil into smaller molecules. These are reacted with methacrylic acid to form the two monomers. Under heat, pressure and the help of a catalyst, the monomers bond in large reactors. The finished copolymer is then purified, dried and milled into a fine powder or delivered as a fluid dispersion ready for cosmetic labs.

Thanks to its clear flexible film, this ingredient shows up in long-wear makeup, waterproof mascaras, liquid eyeliners, transfer-resistant lip colors, hair styling sprays, peel-off face masks, sunscreen sticks and even nail care products.

Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This copolymer plays one main role in formulas and that single role brings several perks.

As a film forming agent, it spreads over skin, hair or nails then dries into a thin continuous layer. That film locks pigment in place so makeup lasts longer, adds water resistance so products stay put through sweat or tears, improves shine in hair and nail items and reduces moisture loss from the skin’s surface, helping other actives remain effective for longer periods.

Who Can Use Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer

This ingredient is generally considered suitable for all skin types. Dry and normal skin enjoy the light film that helps hold moisture while oily or combination skin benefits from a weightless feel that does not add extra grease. People with very sensitive or acne-prone skin may want to monitor how their skin responds since any film former has the theoretical chance of trapping sweat and oil, which could lead to congestion in a small number of users.

Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer is fully synthetic and contains no animal derivatives so it is appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans. Its manufacture also avoids common animal-based processing aids found in some natural waxes.

No studies indicate that the copolymer poses a special risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The molecules are large, sit on the surface of skin and are unlikely to penetrate. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare or makeup product past a healthcare professional just to be safe.

The ingredient does not absorb UV light or trigger photosensitivity. In fact its film can help sunscreens stay in place, indirectly supporting sun protection.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that are possible yet unlikely when the ingredient is used in a properly formulated product.

  • Mild skin irritation – temporary redness or itching can occur in individuals who are sensitive to acrylic polymers
  • Allergic contact dermatitis – rare allergy marked by rash or swelling after repeated exposure
  • Eye irritation – stinging or watering if the ingredient gets into the eyes while using mascara, eyeliner or hair spray
  • Blocked pores and breakouts – occasional congestion in very oily or acne-prone skin if heavy layers are left on overnight
  • Product build-up on hair – dullness or stiffness if shampoos do not fully remove residue from styling sprays containing the polymer

If you experience any negative reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer earns a very low score because its molecules are large and sit on top of the skin rather than slipping into pores. While its film can trap existing oil or debris if makeup is layered heavily and not removed well, the copolymer itself is unlikely to clog pores on its own. Therefore it is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts, provided products are thoroughly cleansed at the end of the day.

If you regularly wear long-wear makeup or waterproof formulas featuring this ingredient be sure to double-cleanse so residue does not build up over time.

Summary

Cyclohexyl Methacrylate/Ethylhexyl Methacrylate Copolymer is valued for one key job: forming a clear flexible film that makes makeup last, adds water resistance, boosts shine and slows moisture loss so actives stay put. It does this by drying into a lightweight plastic-like layer that grips pigments and sits smoothly on skin, hair or nails.

The copolymer is not a headline ingredient and you will mostly find it tucked into long-wear foundations, waterproof mascaras, peel-off masks and styling sprays rather than called out on packaging, yet formulators rely on it because it performs reliably without altering texture or feel.

Current safety data shows a low risk of irritation or systemic absorption when used in cosmetics. As with any new skincare or makeup item it is smart to patch test before full use just to be safe.

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