Styrene/Stearyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Styrene-Stearyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer
Plant-Derived
Skin Conditioner
Clean
2-Propenoic Acid, 2-Methyl-, Octadecyl Ester, Polymer wtih Divinylbenzene and Ethenylbenzene
CAS #
91838-84-5
Form
Liquid
Functions
Absorbent
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic crosspolymer combining styrene and stearyl methacrylate, developed in the late 20th century as a thickener and film-forming agent in cosmetics and personal care products.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
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