What Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5 is a synthetic polymer created by linking many acrylic acid units into a three-dimensional network. The raw material starts as liquid acrylic acid, which chemists neutralize then polymerize in the presence of a crosslinking agent. The resulting solid matrix is milled into a lightweight powder that swells and disperses easily in water-based formulas. First introduced to personal care labs in the late 1990s as a more uniform alternative to traditional carbomers, it quickly found favor for the smooth flexible film it leaves on skin.
Because it is entirely lab made the ingredient is free of animal or plant components and offers predictable performance batch after batch. You will most often spot it in sheet masks, peel-off masks, micellar cleansers, makeup removers, leave-on moisturizers and long-wear makeup where a thin invisible film helps hold the product in place while giving a clean finish.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In topical products this polymer plays two key roles that improve both the feel and the effectiveness of a formula.
- Film Forming: When the powder hydrates it forms a soft breathable film on the skin that locks in water, smooths texture and helps pigments or active ingredients stay where they are applied, boosting wear time and reducing transfer
- Cleansing: Its network structure can trap dirt and excess oil then rinse away easily, so it is added to micellar waters, face washes and makeup removers to lift impurities without stripping the skin
Who Can Use Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5
This ingredient is generally considered suitable for all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it is non-ionic, has a neutral pH once formulated and forms a lightweight breathable film that does not clog pores for most users. Extremely acne-prone or heavily congested skin may prefer lighter gel textures, but in standard concentrations the polymer rarely causes issues.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5 is completely synthetic, contains no animal-derived substances and is not dependent on animal by-products during manufacture, so it fits the standards of vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
Current data shows no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically in cosmetics. It is considered non-penetrating and non-systemic. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear any skincare routine with their physician.
The polymer does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no need for special sun precautions beyond the usual daily SPF recommendation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5 can differ from one person to another. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient has been properly formulated.
- Mild skin irritation such as transient redness or itching, most often linked to very high concentrations or a poorly balanced formula
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to acrylic compounds
- Temporary eye stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Occlusive feel or minor congestion in extremely oily skin when used in rich leave-on products
If you experience any persistent discomfort discontinue use and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5 forms a porous flexible film that stays on the surface of the skin instead of settling inside pores, and its large molecular size prevents buildup within follicles. Studies and user reports rarely link it to clogged pores at normal use levels, though very heavy leave-on creams with a high dose can feel slightly occlusive on exceedingly oily skin.
Generally considered fine for people prone to acne or breakouts.
The polymer is typically used at 0.1–1 percent so the small amount left on skin further lowers any clogging risk.
Summary
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5 is a synthetic polymer prized for two jobs: creating a smooth breathable film that locks in moisture and holds pigments or actives in place, and trapping dirt so cleansers rinse it away easily. Its three-dimensional acrylic network swells in water then dries to a soft layer that delivers these benefits.
It is not a headline grabbing ingredient but formulators reach for it more each year in sheet masks, long wear makeup and micellar waters because it performs reliably and is straightforward to work with.
Safety reviews find it non irritant, non sensitising and largely non comedogenic. Still every skin behaves differently so do a quick patch test when you try any new product containing Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-5.