What Is Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3?
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3 is a modified form of hyaluronic acid, the well known water binding molecule found naturally in skin and other tissues. Manufacturers start with hyaluronic acid that is usually obtained through the fermentation of plant derived glucose by safe bacteria. The acid is converted to its sodium salt then oxidized so that small link points are created along the chain. A linker called propylbisoxyamine is added, connecting the chains into a flexible three dimensional mesh that holds water more tightly and stays on the skin longer than regular hyaluronic acid. The resulting powder disperses easily in water based formulas.
Crosslinked hyaluronic materials first appeared in medical implants, but formulators soon noticed their long lasting hydration and began adapting them for cosmetics in the early 2000s. Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3 is now found in face and eye serums, sheet masks, anti aging creams, gel moisturizers, after sun lotions and leave on treatments aimed at boosting and maintaining skin moisture.
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient delivers two key benefits when added to skin care products
- Humectant: attracts and holds many times its weight in water, helping skin stay hydrated, plump and comfortable even in dry environments
- Skin Conditioning: forms a light breathable film that smooths texture, softens rough patches and supports a healthy looking barrier so skin feels supple and looks refreshed
Who Can Use Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3
This ingredient is considered suitable for all skin types including oily, combination, dry, mature and sensitive because it is lightweight, non occlusive and free of common irritants.
It is produced through plant based fermentation rather than from animal tissue, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
No evidence points to problems for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show their skin care routine to a qualified health professional to be certain it is right for them and their baby.
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3 does not absorb UV light or make skin more sensitive to the sun, so it is not considered photosensitising. Regular sunscreen use is still recommended as part of any daytime routine.
Because it is water soluble and non volatile it generally plays well with other common skin care ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides and gentle exfoliating acids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3 vary from person to person. The following points list potential side effects that might occur even though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly:
- Transient redness or flushing
- Mild stinging or tingling immediately after application
- Itchiness in very sensitive or compromised skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis resulting in swelling or rash
- Breakouts if the finished product contains additional pore clogging ingredients
If any persistent discomfort or visible irritation develops stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional or licensed dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non comedogenic)
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3 is a large water soluble molecule that stays on the surface and binds water instead of mixing with oil inside pores. It contains no fatty chains or waxy residues that could block follicles so it receives the lowest possible score on the comedogenic scale.
Its light non greasy nature means it is suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.
If blemishes appear while using a product that includes this ingredient the culprit is likely another component or an unrelated factor like hormones or diet.
Summary
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-3 provides deep lasting hydration by drawing moisture in then locking it against the skin with a flexible film. This double action makes it an effective humectant and skin conditioning agent that leaves the surface soft smooth and comfortably plump.
Thanks to growing demand for fast visible hydration the ingredient is showing up in more serums masks and gel creams though classic sodium hyaluronate is still more common.
It has an excellent safety profile at the low percentages used in cosmetics with minimal reports of irritation or allergy. Even so every formula differs so patch test new products first to be on the safe side.