Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer

TL;DR. This ingredient is primarily a rheology modifier and emulsion stabilizer, used to build viscosity, suspend particles, and improve the texture of gels, creams, cleansers, and lotions.

What does Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer do in a cosmetic formula?

This ingredient is primarily a rheology modifier and emulsion stabilizer, used to build viscosity, suspend particles, and improve the texture of gels, creams, cleansers, and lotions.

Is Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer clean?

From a clean-beauty perspective, it is usually a friction point because it is a synthetic polymer with residual monomer and microplastic-related scrutiny. Skin irritation is generally low because the molecule is large and not readily absorbed.

Is Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer sustainable?

This material is typically petrochemical-derived and is not readily biodegradable. Its main sustainability concern is environmental persistence after rinse-off use, rather than high acute skin concern.

Is Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer COSMOS-approved?

It is generally not permitted under COSMOS natural or organic standards because it is a synthetic polymer outside the standard’s allowed ingredient pathways. Its Green Chemistry fit is weak due to fossil-derived feedstocks and limited biodegradability, although it can improve formula stability at low use levels.

How does Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer work chemically?

The molecule is a high-molecular-weight synthetic copolymer with a water-compatible backbone and long C22 ethoxylated side chains that associate with surfactants, oils, and other hydrophobic domains to thicken formulas. It is commonly used around 0.1% to 2% and typically needs pH adjustment into the mildly neutral range to fully swell and build viscosity.

Last updated 2026-05-13