What Is Polyacrylate-22?
Polyacrylate-22 is a synthetic polymer created through a multi-step process that links together small acrylic building blocks into a larger chain. Production starts with isophorone diisocyanate reacting with a polyester made from adipic acid and neopentyl glycol. The resulting material is then treated with hydroxyethyl methacrylate and quenched with ethanol to remove leftover reactive groups. Finally, this pre-polymer is copolymerized with acrylic acid, methacrylic acid and methyl methacrylate and partly neutralized with aminomethyl propanol. The outcome is a clear flexible film-forming resin that dissolves in water or alcohol.
The ingredient entered the cosmetic world in the late 1990s when formulators looked for lighter, more flexible alternatives to traditional hair sprays and styling gums. Its balanced mix of hard and soft segments gave it the right blend of hold and comfort, which quickly made it a favorite in styling products. Over time its reliable performance led to use in other leave-on and rinse-off formulas that benefit from a smooth film on skin or hair.
Today Polyacrylate-22 is found in aerosol and pump hair sprays, styling gels, mousses, cream waxes, brow setters, long-wear makeup primers, peel-off masks and certain transfer-resistant foundations. Brands value it for its ability to create a uniform flexible layer that resists humidity yet washes off with regular shampoo or cleanser.
Polyacrylate-22’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas Polyacrylate-22 delivers two main performance boosts:
- Film forming: Creates a thin, even film that locks active ingredients in place, improves water resistance and gives products a smooth finish without a stiff or flaky feel
- Hair fixing: Provides medium to strong hold so hairstyles stay in shape even in high humidity while allowing natural movement and easy restyling
Who Can Use Polyacrylate-22
Polyacrylate-22 is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Its lightweight film does not clog pores or trap excess oil, so oily and acne-prone users usually get along with it. Dry or very sensitive skin can also use it because it is inert and does not strip moisture, though extremely dry complexions might feel a slight tightness if the formula has a high alcohol content.
The polymer is made entirely from synthetic feedstocks, contains no animal-derived components and is not produced using animal enzymes, which makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the finished product for third-party cruelty-free certification if that is important to you.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The large molecular size prevents it from penetrating deeply or entering the bloodstream, so topical use is considered low risk. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare or hair product past a qualified healthcare provider before regular use.
Polyacrylate-22 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common UV filters, acids or retinoids. It is also fragrance free and carries no natural allergen traces, making it a good option for people avoiding essential oils or botanical extracts.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Polyacrylate-22 can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but most users will never experience them when using a properly formulated product.
- Mild skin or scalp irritation in individuals who are reactive to synthetic resins
- Contact allergy resulting in redness or itching, typically in those already sensitized to acrylate chemistry
- Temporary build-up or flaking if large amounts of product are layered without adequate cleansing
- Eye irritation when spray products are used too close to the eyes
- Dryness or tight feel from high alcohol hair sprays that use the polymer as the main fixative
If any irritation or unexpected reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Polyacrylate-22 is a large water-soluble polymer that sits on the surface and does not melt into sebum or block pores. It has no oily carriers or waxy side chains that could trap debris, so the likelihood of it triggering comedones is extremely low.
This makes the ingredient suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. Its lightweight film is easily removed with normal cleansing and does not linger in follicular openings.
One extra point: if the finished product pairs Polyacrylate-22 with heavy oils or butters the overall formula could still feel greasy, but that would be due to those co-ingredients rather than the polymer itself.
Summary
Polyacrylate-22 works mainly as a film former and hair fixative. It links together into a flexible web that coats strands or skin, locking style in place, boosting water resistance and giving products a smooth touch without crunch.
While not a household name, it enjoys steady popularity in hair sprays, gels, brow setters and long-wear primers because it offers reliable hold yet rinses out with regular shampoo or cleanser.
Safety data show it is non-irritating for most users and its large molecular size keeps it on the surface where it cannot enter living tissue. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains Polyacrylate-22 before making it part of your daily routine.