What Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7?
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 is a lab-crafted ingredient made from a blend of acrylic and methacrylic acid units that are linked together then crosslinked with a specialty silicone acrylate. The result is a flexible net-like polymer that swells in water and traps oil, giving formulas a smooth cushiony feel. First introduced in the early 2000s as brands searched for lighter alternatives to heavy thickeners, it quickly gained traction in skincare and hair care labs for its multitasking abilities.
The manufacturing process starts with liquid monomers such as acrylic acid and methacrylic acid. These are polymerized in a controlled reactor, then crosslinked with dimethicone PEG/PPG-25/29 acrylate. The crosslinking step locks the polymer chains into a three-dimensional structure that can grab onto water or oil, improving texture and stability. After purification and drying it becomes a fine, off-white powder ready for cosmetic use.
You will most often see Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating gels, sheet mask essences, soothing after-sun products, micellar cleansers, foaming face washes and even some hair mousses and curl creams. Formulators like it because a small amount thickens water-based systems, boosts foam and adds a soft conditioned finish without greasiness.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile polymer offers several perks that improve both the feel and performance of a formula
- Skin Conditioning: Forms a silky film on the skin that helps hold moisture, leaving the surface soft and supple
- Emollient: Adds slip and glide so creams spread easily and feel velvety rather than tacky
- Foam Boosting: Stabilizes bubbles in cleansers and shampoos which leads to richer longer-lasting lather and a more luxurious wash experience
Who Can Use Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7
Because it is lightweight non greasy and free of common irritants Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 suits almost every skin type including oily combination dry and sensitive. Those with very dehydrated or mature skin may still want to pair it with richer occlusives for extra moisture locking but the ingredient itself poses no special concerns.
The polymer is fully synthetic with no animal sourced components so it is compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Cruelty status depends on the brand’s individual animal testing policies rather than the ingredient itself.
Current safety data show no reproductive or developmental hazards which means formulas containing Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 are generally viewed as safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products just to be certain.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 does not absorb UV light and is not known to cause photosensitivity. It can be used morning or night without increasing the risk of sunburn though daily sunscreen is still important for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The following points outline potential issues that could arise with Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 yet they remain uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a well formulated product.
- Mild stinging or burning on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Transient redness or warming sensation immediately after application
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases where someone is sensitive to acrylic polymers
- Product pilling if layered with heavy silicones or oils due to film forming nature
- Eye irritation if a cleanser or foam containing the polymer is not fully rinsed from the ocular area
If any irritation or discomfort develops stop using the product and consult a qualified medical professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (essentially non-comedogenic)
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 is a large, water-swellable polymer that sits on the skin surface, forms a breathable film and is easily rinsed away. It lacks the oily or waxy character typical of pore-clogging ingredients, so it does not penetrate or accumulate inside follicles. Lab and in-use data show no increase in comedone formation even at high concentrations.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because the polymer can trap sebum in the uppermost film, pairing it with very heavy occlusives might occasionally feel greasy on extremely oily skin, yet this effect is cosmetic rather than truly comedogenic.
Summary
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 conditions skin, delivers a soft emollient feel and boosts foam by forming a flexible, water-loving network that stabilises emulsions and bubbles. Its ability to swell in water while lightly holding oils lets formulators create gels and cleansers that feel plush without heaviness.
The ingredient is moderately popular, showing up in everything from hydrating serums to foaming face washes, though it is less talked about than silicone elastomers or classic carbomers because it works quietly behind the scenes rather than driving marketing claims.
Current safety reviews rate Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-7 as low risk with minimal irritation potential. As with any new product, a simple patch test is still wise before full-face use to make sure your skin agrees with the overall formula.