Acrylates copolymer is a name given to synthetic copolymers that contain two or more than two monomers like methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, and one of their esters. It comes in the form of white powder or beads. Acrylates copolymer is a film-forming agent that is used in cosmetic and skin care products. It forms a barrier on the skin and results in a very soft and smooth after feel. Further, acrylates copolymer adds water resistance or waterproof quality to formulations.
What is ACRYLATES COPOLYMER used for?
Acrylates copolymer has many uses in the world of cosmetics. It is used in a variety of products such as shampoos, body lotions, nail paints, etc. Acrylates copolymer for skin has benefits such as smoothening and softening. It forms a film or a barrier on the skin to result in a smooth feel. It even acts as a thickening agent for improving the texture of formulations. It is most commonly used in eye shadows, mascara, eyebrow pencils, and lipsticks. Acrylates copolymer is good for hair as it aids in smoothening and detangling the shafts.
Origin
Acrylates copolymer is made by combining acrylic acid and methacrylic acid along with one of their esters or salts. It can be in white powder or beads form and is one of the most commonly produced microplastics. Microplastics or microbeads are tiny, solid particles that are added to cosmetic and skin care products because of their smoothening and exfoliating properties.
Safety profile
Acrylates copolymer is safe for use on skin and hair at lower concentrations. At higher concentrations, however, it may cause allergies like irritation. A patch test is recommended prior to full application. Additionally, even though Acrylates copolymer is soluble in water, it is non-biodegradable. Moreover, being microplastic, it poses a safety hazard to the environment.