What Is Polyacrylate-44?
Polyacrylate-44 is a lab-made copolymer created by linking together stearyl acrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate (known as HEMA), dimethicone methacrylate and small amounts of acrylic or methacrylic acid. The result is a large, flexible molecule that behaves like a clear lightweight glue when spread on skin or hair.
Acrylate polymers started showing up in beauty products in the 1970s as chemists looked for ways to make makeup last longer without feeling heavy. Polyacrylate-44 is a newer member of this family that was designed to give an extra smooth feel thanks to the dimethicone unit and to stay put even in humid conditions.
The polymer is produced through emulsion polymerization. In simple terms, the liquid monomers are mixed in water along with a catalyst, heat and gentle stirring. As the reaction proceeds the monomers lock together into microscopic beads of polymer suspended in water. The mixture is then filtered, washed and dried to form a fine powder or kept as a thick aqueous gel that formulators can pour straight into a batch.
You will most often find Polyacrylate-44 in long-wear foundations, tinted moisturizers, sunscreens, peel-off masks, hair gels, anti-aging serums and even glossy lip products where it helps the color cling to the surface.
Polyacrylate-44’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its value to a formula comes from one main job: film forming.
As a film former Polyacrylate-44 spreads out and dries into a thin flexible layer that holds other ingredients in place. This film improves water resistance in sunscreens, prevents pigments from smudging in makeup, locks in moisture in lotions and helps hair styles keep their shape without flaking. Because the polymer is lightweight the finished product feels breathable rather than tight or sticky.
Who Can Use Polyacrylate-44
Because Polyacrylate-44 is an inert film-forming polymer with no active acids or fragrances it is generally well tolerated by all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin. Its lightweight flexible film does not trap heat or heavy oils so even acne-prone users usually do fine with it. Those with eczema or very compromised skin barriers should still watch how their skin feels since any film former can sometimes accentuate dryness if the formula lacks enough moisturizers.
The ingredient is made entirely from petroleum and silicone-based raw materials, not from animals, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Animal testing policies depend on the finished brand, not the polymer itself.
No data suggest that Polyacrylate-44 poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It stays on the skin surface and is not absorbed in meaningful amounts. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to a qualified doctor just to be safe.
Polyacrylate-44 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with UV filters in sunscreen. It is odorless, colorless and unlikely to stain clothes or towels.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Polyacrylate-44 differ from person to person. The issues listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used as intended in a professionally formulated product.
- Mild redness, itching or stinging in very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis characterized by rash or swelling
- Dry or tight feeling if applied in high amounts without accompanying humectants
- Eye irritation if the raw polymer or a product containing it gets into the eyes
- Build-up on hair leading to dullness or residue if shampoo is not used regularly
If you experience any discomfort stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Polyacrylate-44 is a large, water-dispersible polymer that does not behave like oils or waxes commonly linked to clogged pores. It sits on the surface in a breathable mesh and is removed easily with regular cleansing, which is why its likelihood of blocking follicles is very low. The rating is not a perfect zero because, in very heavy or layered applications, any film former can trap existing sebum or debris until the product is washed off. Overall it is considered suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.
Because the ingredient does not feed surface bacteria or add extra oil it is often chosen for long-wear makeup marketed to oily and combination skin types.
Summary
Polyacrylate-44 is a modern film-forming copolymer that helps cosmetics stay put by drying into a thin flexible layer. That layer boosts water resistance in sunscreen, prevents pigment migration in makeup and locks styling agents onto hair while keeping the finish light and comfortable.
It is not as famous as classic acrylate resins like PVP or carbomers, yet formulators appreciate its silky feel and humidity resistance so you will spot it in an increasing number of long-wear foundations, tinted SPF products and clear styling gels.
Safety data show very low irritation and virtually no absorption through intact skin, making Polyacrylate-44 a low-risk choice for the vast majority of users. Still, every formula is different and individual sensitivities exist so it is always smart to patch test when you try a new product that contains this ingredient.