Science
Mechanism of Action
POLY C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE, frequently referred to as Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, possesses a unique chemical structure featuring both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (oil-attracting) components. This allows it to effectively bind to both water and oil phases within a formulation, thereby acting as a powerful thickening agent and emulsion stabilizer to prevent phase separation. Upon application, it creates a lightweight, protective barrier on the skin, which helps to minimize environmental damage and facilitate uniform moisture delivery.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Insufficient-data confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
POLY C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE is primarily a rheology modifier and emulsion stabilizer. Concerns related to the 'dusting' of finely powdered active ingredients, which can impact precise dosing, are not typically applicable to this excipient.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
This ingredient exhibits robust stability across a broad pH spectrum, performing effectively at both low and high pH values, and is predominantly utilized to optimize viscosity around pH 5.0-7.0. It swells significantly in water and its unique composition allows it to interact with both aqueous and oil phases. Additionally, it contributes to improved freeze-thaw and high-temperature stability in cosmetic products.
Conflicts
- Can experience irreversible loss of viscosity if electrolytes (salts) are added to the formulation.
- Forms polymerized in benzene are a significant safety concern; modern production standards rigorously exclude this practice.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that POLY C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE is safe for use in current cosmetic practices and concentrations, specifically up to 5% in leave-on and rinse-off products, provided it is not polymerized using benzene. The FDA further supports its use in cosmetic applications. While typically limited to 5%, it may be incorporated at higher concentrations, up to 30%, in specific gel or emulsifying formulations for its thickening properties.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
POLY C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE is a valuable polymeric excipient, highly effective for optimizing product texture, ensuring emulsion stability, and providing a protective skin barrier, with a robust and well-established safety profile for all skin types.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…