Acrylates Copolymer: What Does That Polymer on the Label Do?
Arin Editorial · how this is made
You might see 'Acrylates Copolymer' on the label of a lotion, hairspray, or nail polish. It is a synthetic polymer made from derivatives of acrylic acid and methacrylic acid. Its job is to stabilize the product's consistency and texture.
What it is and how it's made
A polymer is a long chain of repeating small units. Acrylates Copolymer is made by polymerizing units like methyl methacrylate and ethyl acrylate. It is produced by a method called emulsion polymerization. It is a white powder that works with water.
What it does in cosmetics
It has three main roles: thickener, emulsion stabilizer, and film former. In hairspray, it holds hair; in nail polish, it thickens and improves adhesion; in lotions, it prevents oil and water from separating. It can also be added to sunscreens to improve water resistance. It is also used in adhesives and paints.
Is the allergy concern justified?
Hearing 'acrylates' often makes people think of allergies. That concern has a real basis for acrylate monomers. But the copolymer is a fully polymerized large molecule; it does not penetrate the skin. Sources report no recorded allergy or sensitization for this ingredient. The EU has not set a concentration limit, product-type restriction, or warning label requirement for it either.
No use limit or restriction for Acrylates Copolymer has been reported in the European Union to date.
Seeing 'Acrylates Copolymer' on a label is normal. It is a commonly used thickener in many products. There is nothing special to do; if you feel irritation on your skin, it could be due to another ingredient, not necessarily this one. 'Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer' or nano forms are assessed differently; don't confuse them with the standard form.