Hydroxyethylmethacrylate acetoacetate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: HEMA acetoacetate, 2-Hydroxyethyl methacrylate acetoacetate
Synthetic
Occlusive
Not Clean
Hydroxyethylmethacrylate acetoacetate is a cosmetic ingredient. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
Form
Liquid
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Traditional Use
A synthetic polymer precursor developed in the late 20th century for use in cosmetic formulations. No traditional use; created as a cross-linking agent and film-former in modern skincare and personal care products.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Industry max
Industry typically uses up to 79.0% in leave-on products (17 products reported). Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 845).
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR