Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Acrylates Crosspolymer, Carbopol
Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Clean
C10-30 alkyl propenoate, polymer with propenoic acid, butenoic acidand/or alkyl propenoates, product with propenyl sucrose ether or propenyl 2,2-dihydroxymethyl-1,3-propanediol
Form
Liquid
State
Solid
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Antioxidant
Moisturizing
Improves Elasticity
Creates protective layer
Keeps product blended
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
Developed in the late 20th century as a synthetic polymer used in cosmetics as a thickening and suspending agent. Created to provide film-forming and texture-enhancing properties in modern skincare and makeup formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR