Acrylates Crosspolymer-5

AKA: Carbomer, Acrylic Acid Crosspolymer

Synthetic

Occlusive

Not Clean

OriginDerived from acrylic acid and other acrylate monomers, members of the synthetic polymer chemical family. Synthesized through free radical polymerization of acrylate monomers with crosslinking agents to form a network structure.

Acrylates Crosspolymer-5 is a cosmetic ingredient. Assessed as safe by the CIR.

Form

Liquid

State

Solid

Skin Types

●all-skin-types

Best For

General

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Yes

Functions

Film Forming

Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.

Viscosity Controlling

Absorbs Excess Oil

Wound Healing

The paper trail

🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →

⚖️Regulatory0 listings

🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →

Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.

EWG

CIR

Safe as used

Pregnancy

Yes

Restricted By

Whole Foods Premium Body Care Beauty Heroes

Concentration Guide

CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.

CIR · report published 2018

Regulatory Status

USA✔ permitted

EU⚠ restricted

JAPAN⚠ restricted

CANADA⚠ restricted

Regulatory Agencies

EWG CIR FDA EU COSING Health Canada

Verified Jun 2026

Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR