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Ingredient · INCI reference

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer

A versatile gelling and emulsifying polymer used to thicken sunscreens and stabilize their oil-and-water blend.

What it is

This acrylic copolymer both thickens water and helps emulsify oils, so it can build a stable, smooth gel-cream in one ingredient. It gives a light, fresh, fast-absorbing texture and helps keep UV filters evenly suspended.

Safety & warnings

As a large surface-active polymer it is generally regarded as well tolerated and low-irritation.

Origin & sourcing

Synthetic acrylic copolymer.

Questions everyone asks

What does this ingredient do?

It thickens the formula and helps blend oil and water, producing a light, stable gel-cream texture.

Is it a common sunscreen ingredient?

Yes, polymers of this type are widely used to give modern sunscreens their lightweight feel.

Sources & references

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