What Is Sodium Tauride Acrylates/Acrylic Acid/Acrylonitrogens Copolymer?
Sodium Tauride Acrylates/Acrylic Acid/Acrylonitrogens Copolymer is a synthetic polymer created by reacting acrylic acid, acrylate salts and acrylonitrile with sodium tauride, also known as sodium 2-aminoethanesulfonate. The process links these small molecules into long chains, then partially hydrolyzes the nitrile groups so the final material is water-friendly and carries a mild negative charge. The result is a white to off-white powder that disperses easily in water and swells into a smooth gel.
The backbone chemistry comes from work done in the 1960s and 1970s when chemists looked for lightweight film formers that could replace shellac and natural gums in hair sprays. Adding sodium tauride improved water compatibility and made the polymer more flexible once dry. Over time formulators discovered that the copolymer also thickens water-based systems, so it moved beyond hair care into skin care and makeup.
Today you will spot it in many personal care products: styling gels, mousses, mascaras, liquid eyeliners, foundations, tinted moisturizers, peel-off masks, sunscreens, sheet mask essences and anti-aging serums. Because it works at low use levels and plays well with most common ingredients, it is a versatile tool on the chemist’s bench.
Sodium Tauride Acrylates/Acrylic Acid/Acrylonitrogens Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves two main technical roles that translate into visible benefits for the user
- Film forming – When the product dries the polymer forms an invisible, flexible layer on skin or hair. This film locks in moisture, helps pigments and UV filters stay in place, boosts wear time for makeup and adds light hold in styling products
- Viscosity controlling – In water-based formulas the copolymer swells to create a smooth gel texture. This thickness keeps oils, powders and actives suspended so the product looks uniform, feels plush during application and resists separating on the shelf
Who Can Use Sodium Tauride Acrylates/Acrylic Acid/Acrylonitrogens Copolymer
This polymer is generally considered suitable for all skin types. Its lightweight film keeps moisture in without trapping excess oil so oily and combination skin usually tolerate it well. The gel texture also offers a cushiony feel that comforts dry or mature skin. Sensitive skin users rarely report problems because the ingredient carries a mild negative charge and contains no known sensitizing impurities, though those with a history of acrylic allergies should still be cautious.
The material is fully synthetic and contains no animal derived components, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety reviews find no reproductive toxicity concerns, meaning products that include this polymer are not expected to pose specific risks to pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product they are using past a qualified healthcare provider just to be on the safe side.
The polymer itself does not absorb UV light and does not increase photosensitivity. It is also odorless and free of essential oils so it will not heighten sun reactivity in that indirect way either.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Sodium Tauride Acrylates/Acrylic Acid/Acrylonitrogens Copolymer can vary from person to person. The issues listed below are simply potential outcomes and are highly unlikely for the typical user when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild skin irritation such as transient redness or itching, especially on compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to acrylic type polymers
- Stiff or sticky feel on hair or skin if the product contains a very high concentration of the polymer
- Flaking or white residue on hair when multiple film formers layer together
If you experience any discomfort or visible reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Sodium Tauride Acrylates/Acrylic Acid/Acrylonitrogens Copolymer is highly water-compatible, forms a breathable film and is used at low percentages, so it is very unlikely to block pores. It lacks oily or waxy fractions that normally raise comedogenicity scores.
Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Only in unusually heavy formulas combined with multiple film formers could it contribute to buildup that needs deeper cleansing at the end of the day.
Summary
This polymer thickens water-based products and leaves an invisible flexible film that keeps makeup, actives and moisture where you want them. Its dual role as film former and viscosity controller makes it a handy multitasker in hair care, color cosmetics, sunscreens and light skincare gels.
While not the most famous ingredient on labels it appears in a steady stream of newer clean-feel stylers, long-wear foundations and weightless serums because chemists appreciate its reliability and low use levels.
Current data show it is low risk for irritation or systemic toxicity. As with any new product a quick patch test is still smart before full use.