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Moumoujus

ETHYL ACRYLATE.

Avoid CAS 140-88-5 / PLASTICISER

Ethyl Acrylate is primarily a chemical monomer utilized to synthesize various acrylic polymers, which then serve as functional film-forming and binding agents in numerous applications. However, as a monomer, it is a recognized skin irritant and sensitizer, necessitating strict control to limit its presence in cosmetic formulations to trace residual levels.

Summary

Polymer Precursor Film-forming Agent (as part of polymerized derivatives) Binding Agent (as part of polymerized derivatives) Adhesive (as monomer, particularly in industrial contexts or specific products)

Science

Mechanism of Action

This compound primarily functions as a foundational monomer in polymerization reactions, leading to the creation of acrylic polymers. These polymerized derivatives are prized in cosmetic formulations for their ability to form robust films and act as binding agents, thereby enhancing product integrity, flexibility, durability, and resistance to environmental factors like moisture and weathering. In its unpolymerized monomeric state, it also exhibits adhesive properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 A lowest erythema dose (concentration causing very slight skin redness) was observed at 1500 ppm (0.15%) in human patch tests.
  2. 02 Effective Concentration 3 (EC3) for skin sensitization, indicating a threshold for inducing allergic contact dermatitis, was identified at 28.7% and 36.8%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
≤ 20 ppm (0.002%)%
Red flag below
> 20 ppm (0.002%)%

Ethyl Acrylate monomer is not an ingredient touted for direct skin benefits; instead, it is a well-documented irritant and sensitizer. Its permissible presence in cosmetic products is strictly limited to residual amounts, typically at or below 20 ppm, within polymerized acrylate copolymers to ensure product safety. Any concentration exceeding this established threshold represents a significant safety red flag, indicating potential for adverse dermal reactions.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Ethyl Acrylate is a volatile liquid susceptible to spontaneous polymerization at room temperature, with this process accelerating under conditions of heat, light, and in the presence of peroxides. For optimal stability, it requires storage below 35°C (preferably below 30°C), in the presence of a chemical stabilizer, and a continuous supply of oxygen for the inhibitor to function effectively. Regular replenishment of dissolved oxygen is advised for storage durations exceeding four weeks.

Conflicts

  • amines
  • strong acids
  • alkalis
  • silica
  • alumina
  • oxidizing agents
  • UV light
  • initiators

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
≤ 20 ppm%
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Panel has not reviewed Ethyl Acrylate monomer directly. However, it concluded that 'Acrylates Copolymers' are safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating, provided the residual Ethyl Acrylate concentration is typically at or below 20 ppm. The monomer itself is unequivocally a known skin irritant and sensitizer. The FDA withdrew its authorization for Ethyl Acrylate as a synthetic flavoring substance in food in October 2018 due to safety concerns. The FDA has previously acted against related acrylate monomers (e.g., methyl methacrylate) in nail products due to severe allergic and irritant reactions.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Ethyl Acrylate monomer is a confirmed skin irritant and sensitizer with no inherent skincare benefits, making its intentional inclusion in formulations highly undesirable; its presence should be strictly limited to minimal residual traces within polymerized ingredients.

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