Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer is a synthetic polymer that serves a variety of purposes in cosmetics, primarily as a stabilizer, texture enhancer, dispersing agent, and opacifier. It is frequently mixed with substances like isohexadecane, different polysorbates, and a mixture of silicones made of siloxane or dimethicone. It helps cosmetic formulators produce appealing aesthetics using the different combinations of this polymer and other substances.
What is HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER used for?
Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer is an excellent emulsifier/stabilizer. It is a helpful ingredient that works well to stabilize and emulsify oils in water-based formulations. Additionally, it thickens and gels substances to produce nice, non-sticky, and supple textures. It can be used to thicken low-pH formulas, like exfoliants, over a very broad pH range (3–12). The advised usage range is between 0.3 and 3%.
- Skin care: It influences a product's ability to break on the skin (meaning how quickly its initial texture changes once applied). Because of this, it is frequently used in products with prominent gel-cream textures. This copolymer's ability to function effectively and steadily across a broad pH range is another advantageous feature. It leaves the skin feeling soft and supple, like velvet
Origin
Information on the methods of manufacture of these ingredients was not found in the published literature and no unpublished data were provided. As with polyacrylamide and other vinyl-type polymers, radical-type polymerization is probably a common process. Formaldehyde and acetylene are used to start this kind of synthesis, which then moves on to 2-butyne-1,4-diol, butyrolactone, -pyrrolidone, and N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone (the monomer), which is then polymerized to create the polymer. Normally, the monomer is polymerized in water; however, isopropyl alcohol is used in commercial polymerization. Steam distillation is then used to turn the alcoholic solution into an aqueous solution, which is then either drum- or spray-dried.
Safety profile
Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer has no unfavorable side effects or precautions associated with it. This ingredient has been approved as safe for use in cosmetics by the independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Maximum concentrations for rinse-off products range from 3.6-4.3%, including eyeliners and eyeshadows that are left on the skin. Since the use of this ingredient was limited to 3% in leave-on products by the safety assessment, cosmetic companies typically use less than those maximum amounts.