What it is
This is a high-molecular-weight synthetic copolymer built from acrylate and acryloyldimethyl taurate monomers in their sodium-salt form. It swells in water to thicken and gel the formula, helping to control viscosity and stabilize emulsions so that oil and water phases stay uniformly dispersed. In sunscreens it contributes to a smooth, stable texture and even distribution of the formula on skin.
Safety & warnings
Synthetic acrylate-taurate copolymers of this type are generally well tolerated and are not associated with significant irritation, sensitization, or comedogenicity at the levels used as rheology modifiers. They remain on the skin surface and are not skin actives.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; manufactured by polymerizing acrylic-type monomers and neutralizing to the sodium salt.
Questions everyone asks
What is this copolymer used for?
It is a thickener and emulsion stabilizer that gels the water phase, controls viscosity, and keeps the formula uniform and stable.
Does it have any effect on the skin itself?
No active skincare effect; it is a texture and stability ingredient that helps the product spread evenly and stay consistent.