What Is Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer?
Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a modern synthetic ingredient created by linking acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or their simple esters with beheneth-25 methacrylate, then neutralizing the resulting network with sodium ions. A tiny amount of methylene bis-acrylamide is added to crosslink the chains, turning the blend into a three-dimensional polymer that can swell in water. The finished material usually appears as a white powder or a pre-dispersed liquid that is easy to add to water-based formulas.
The technology behind this ingredient grew out of the late 20th-century search for gentler, more versatile thickeners that could hold large amounts of water without feeling sticky. Chemists discovered that by grafting a long, fatty alcohol-derived piece such as beheneth-25 onto an acrylic backbone, they could balance water-binding power with a soft, cushiony skin feel. Over the years the polymer has gained popularity as brands shifted toward lighter gel textures that still deliver moisture.
Manufacturing begins with controlled polymerization in reactors where temperature, pH and agitation are closely monitored. Once the polymer chains reach the desired length, sodium hydroxide is added to convert acidic groups to their sodium form, improving stability and ease of dispersion. After filtering and drying, the powder is milled to achieve uniform particle size before packaging.
You will most often see Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer in clear gels, lightweight moisturizers, after-sun lotions, sheet mask essences, anti-aging serums, hair styling creams and some color cosmetics like liquid foundations or tinted moisturizers where a smooth, non-greasy feel is essential.
Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multifunctional polymer improves both the texture of a product and the way skin feels after application.
- Skin conditioning: The polymer traps water within its network, helping formulas leave skin feeling soft, supple and lightly hydrated without heaviness or residue
- Viscosity controlling: It swells when mixed with water, building body and thickness so products glide on smoothly, suspend actives evenly and stay stable across a wide temperature range
Who Can Use Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer
This polymer is considered friendly for every skin type including oily, combination, normal and dry since it delivers light hydration without heaviness. People with easily upset or sensitive skin usually tolerate it well because the molecule is large and stays on the surface instead of sinking in and causing trouble. There are no known reasons for acne-prone users to avoid it although overall formula design always matters.
The ingredient is fully synthetic and contains no animal-derived components so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Most suppliers also confirm they do not use animal testing for this raw material.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women are not expected to face any unique risks because the polymer sits on top of skin and is not absorbed. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare routine past a physician to be extra safe.
Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer does not cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more reactive to sunlight. It also plays nicely with common actives like vitamin C, retinol and exfoliating acids without destabilizing them.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects only. When used correctly in a well-formulated product most people will never notice any of these issues.
- Mild redness or stinging on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare cases of contact irritation for those allergic to acrylic polymers
- Transient eye irritation if the product is accidentally rubbed into the eyes
- Product pilling when layered with high silicone or heavy oil formulas
If you experience any discomfort or visible reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)
Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a large water-swelling molecule that sits on the surface rather than seeping into follicles. It forms a breathable film that does not trap heavy oils against the skin and contains no fatty acids known to feed acne bacteria. Because it is used at low percentages and usually in lightweight gel textures the risk of pore blockage is minimal.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with any thickener the final product formula matters: if paired with heavy occlusive oils the overall product could still feel greasy even though this polymer itself is non-comedogenic.
Summary
Sodium Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer mainly conditions skin by holding water at the surface and controls viscosity by swelling into a soft gel network when hydrated. This dual action lets formulators build silky lightweight lotions gels and serums that spread evenly and keep actives suspended.
The polymer has gained steady popularity in modern skincare where consumers prefer fresh non-sticky textures though it is not yet as ubiquitous as classic carbomer or xanthan gum.
Safety data show it is generally non-irritating non-sensitizing and non-comedogenic when used as intended. Still every skin is different so patch testing a new product that contains this ingredient is a smart extra step.