Acrylic Acid/Stearyl Acrylate Copolymer
AKA “Acrylic polymer, Thickener
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Acrylic acid/stearyl acrylate copolymer
AKA: Acrylic polymer, Thickener
Synthetic · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
Helps create a smooth, even texture and forms a protective layer on skin to lock in moisture and maintain product performance.
CAS #
36120-03-3
See origin →
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Stabilizes Emulsion
Creates Protective Barrier
Fights Bacteria
Locks In Moisture
Creates protective layer
Keeps product blended
Traditional Use
A synthetic polymer created for cosmetic use to provide thickening and emulsifying properties. Used in cream and lotion formulations as an alternative to traditional natural thickeners.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR