What it is
Dimethylacrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer is a crosslinked acrylamide-based polymer that swells in water to thicken formulas and stabilize emulsions. It produces a light, non-tacky gel feel and helps suspend pigments and UV filters evenly. It is widely used in Japanese sunscreens for a smooth, fresh application.
Safety & warnings
As a large, non-penetrating polymer it is generally considered non-irritating and non-comedogenic at typical use levels.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; made by copolymerizing dimethylacrylamide with sodium acryloyldimethyltaurate and crosslinking the chains.
Questions everyone asks
What does this polymer do in a sunscreen?
It thickens the formula and stabilizes the emulsion, helping keep UV filters and pigments evenly suspended while giving a smooth feel.
Does it leave a sticky residue?
It is generally chosen for a light, non-tacky gel texture rather than a heavy or sticky finish.