Acrylates/Ethylhexyl Acrylate/Styrene Copolymer

AKA: Acrylic copolymer, Film-forming polymer

Synthetic

Occlusive

Not Clean

Copolymer of ethylhexyl acrylate, styrene and one or more monomers of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or one of their simple esters

Form

Liquid

State

Solid

Functions

Film Forming

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

Creates Protective Barrier

Traditional Use

A synthetic copolymer developed in the mid-to-late 20th century for cosmetic applications. Designed to provide flexible, durable film formation in makeup and personal care products.

EWG

CIR

Safe as used

Pregnancy

Yes

Restricted By

Ulta Conscious Beauty

CIR Safety Findings

medical-approval

all-shades-safe

Regulatory Status

USA✔ permitted

EU⚠ restricted

JAPAN⚠ restricted

CANADA⚠ restricted

Regulatory Agencies

EWG CIR FDA EU COSING Health Canada

Skin Types

●all-skin-types

Best For

General

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Yes

The paper trail

🔬Peer-reviewednone on file

⚖️Regulatory1 listing →

🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →

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

Verified Jun 2026

Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR