Acrylates/Steareth-50 Acrylate Copolymer
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Acrylic polymer, Film former
Plant-Derived
Occlusive
Not Clean
Octadecyl poly(oxyethylene) 2-propenoate, polymer with 2-methyl-2-propenoic acid, 2-propenoic acid or one or more of their simple esters
Form
Liquid
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Creates Protective Barrier
Controls Viscosity
Creates protective layer
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
Developed as a synthetic polymer for cosmetic use in the modern era. Functions as an emulsifier and stabilizer in various skincare and color cosmetic products.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️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