Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11

TL;DR. This ingredient is a synthetic rheology modifier and film-forming stabilizer. It thickens water-based systems, helps suspend pigments or droplets, and gives gels, creams, and sunscreens a smoother, more cushioned feel.

What does Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 do in a cosmetic formula?

This ingredient is a synthetic rheology modifier and film-forming stabilizer. It thickens water-based systems, helps suspend pigments or droplets, and gives gels, creams, and sunscreens a smoother, more cushioned feel.

Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 clean?

From a clean-beauty perspective, it is usually flagged for being a persistent synthetic polymer rather than for routine skin irritation. Its large molecular size limits skin penetration, but some standards scrutinize this category for residual monomers and microplastic-style persistence.

Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 sustainable?

This material is made from petroleum-derived monomers and is not readily biodegradable. Because it is crosslinked and high molecular weight, it tends to persist in the environment rather than break down quickly.

Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 COSMOS-approved?

It is not permitted under COSMOS-natural or COSMOS-organic standards because it is a synthetic crosslinked polymer. Its Green Chemistry fit is weak, with nonrenewable feedstocks and limited biodegradability, although it can be effective at low use levels.

How does Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-11 work chemically?

The molecule is a high-molecular-weight, crosslinked vinyl polymer network with ionizable carboxylate groups that swell in water and build viscosity through hydration and charge repulsion. Typical use levels are about 0.2% to 1.5%, with best performance in mildly acidic to neutral or alkaline systems and reduced viscosity possible at very low pH or high electrolyte load.

Last updated 2026-05-13