Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer

What is Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer?

This ingredient is a synthetic copolymer derived from acrylamide, sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate, and acrylic acid monomers. Produced through polymerization, it serves as a multifunctional agent in cosmetics, particularly in skincare creams, gels, sunscreens, and hair styling products. In formulations, it functions by absorbing water to swell and create stable, clear gels that improve texture and viscosity. It also deposits thin, flexible films on the skin or hair surface, enhancing water resistance, style hold, and product durability without stiffness. Commonly used in aqueous systems, it stabilizes emulsions and suspensions, ensuring even application and long-lasting effects in daily personal care routines.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-2 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.
Hair fixing
Improves style retention by depositing film-forming polymers that hold hair in place while balancing stiffness, flexibility, and humidity resistance.
Hair fixative
Provides style hold by forming a film on hair, helping maintain shape, reduce frizz, and improve durability in sprays, gels, and mousses.

Benefits

Provides smooth, thickened textures for easy product spreadability.

Forms protective films that boost water and transfer resistance.

Supports hair styling by offering flexible hold against humidity.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users seeking stable, non-dripping gel formulations in skincare.
Those with known sensitivity to synthetic polymers.
Individuals styling hair who need humidity-resistant hold.
Users preferring all-natural or minimalist ingredient lists.
People applying sunscreens or makeup for improved wear time.
People experiencing reactions to similar acrylic-based thickeners.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores of 1-2.
  • Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use with minimal irritation potential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer

What does this copolymer do in skincare?

It thickens gels, stabilizes formulas, and forms flexible films for better product performance.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It carries low irritation risk and EWG scores of 1-2, suitable for most users.

Does it work in hair products?

Yes, it provides humidity-resistant hold and style retention in gels and sprays.