Acrylates Crosspolymer-4

Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 is a crosslinked, water-swellable acrylic polymer used as a cosmetic rheology modifier. It builds viscosity, stabilizes emulsions, suspends fine ingredients, and creates smooth, non-tacky gel textures once neutralized.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
Gives gels and creams a bouncy, non-tacky texture.
Category
Tone/Texture
Type
Rheology Modifier

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Creates a cushioned, bouncy feel and helps formulas stay uniform for a polished application. Can minimize runniness so products apply with better control.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in water-gel serums, gel moisturizers, and eye gels to deliver a light, cushiony sensorial. Also used in jelly cleansers to maintain a consistent glide.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally well tolerated; irritation is uncommon but possible for very sensitive skin, especially if a formula is not fully neutralized. Patch testing is prudent for reactive skin. No widely recognized regulatory restrictions for cosmetic use.

Is Acrylates Crosspolymer-4 a Good Ingredient?

This lands at Great because it reliably builds viscosity and stabilizes gels/emulsions at low levels, with strong formulation stability and a typically low irritation profile when properly neutralized. Its inert, water-swellable structure delivers smooth textures without adding heaviness.

Products with Acrylates Crosspolymer-4

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