Name
Acrylates Copolymer
Description
Acrylates Copolymer is a term used to describe a group of copolymers that are formed by the polymerization of various acrylate monomers. These copolymers are commonly used in a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products. Acrylates Copolymer is a synthetic polymer made from a combination of acrylate monomers. It can vary in composition depending on the specific monomers used, which allows for a wide range of properties. Linear polymers of acrylic acid are produced by combining the monomer with a free-radical initiator. The size of the polymer is determined by controlling the environment in which the polymerization occurs. Hydroquinone and monomethyl ester of hydroquinone are often incorporated into acrylic acid and its esters as an inhibitor.
Benefits
Thickens, stabilizes, and forms a film.
Considerations
• Unknown Chemicals
When a product lists acrylates copolymer we really don't know exactly which chemicals it contains. Some acrylate copolymers are more harmful than others.
• Suspected Carcinogens
Some acrylate copolymers like ethyl acrylate are “possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) classified by the IARC.
• Contamination Concerns
Hydroquinone may be present. • Ethical Concerns
Workers manufacturing acrylates copolymers were found to have pulmonary fibrosis.
Synonyms
ACRYLIC/ACRYLATES COPOLYMER
ACRYLIC/ACRYLATE COPOLYMER
Research Sources
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/acryco092018TAR.pdf
Summary
Some acrylate copolymers are possibly carcinogenic. If we don't know exactly what we're putting on our skin, we can't fully ascertain safety, so we recommend avoiding.
Where Knowledge Grows