Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Also known as: Carbomer U21, Carbomer Ultrez 21, Carbopol Ultrez 21, Pemulen TR-1, Pemulen TR-2
Primarily functions as a polymeric emulsifier | Used to enhance the texture of skin care and hair care products
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer?
Acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer is a synthetic ingredient used to enhance the texture and perceived feel of many types of skin care and hair care products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review has deemed it safe as it is currently used in cosmetics. It was found not to be an irritant. In its raw form, it is a white powder. It is commonly used in concentrations of less than 1% and can emulsify oils in concentrations as high as 30%\n\nAccording to its manufacturer (which sells acrylates/c10-30 aklyl acrylate crosspolymer under the name “Pemulen TR-1 or 2”) its ability to create stable and mild oil-in-water emulsions makes it particularly suitable for skin care products that are applied through spray mechanisms. Because of its emulsion-forming technology it is also used in the development of water-resistant sunscreen formulations.
Clinical Evidence & References
References:
- International Journal of Toxicology, 2017, Volume 36, Supplement 2, pages 59S-88S View Study
- Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica - Drug Research, May 2017, Volume 74, Number 3, pages 937-943 View Study
- SpecialChem INCI entry View Study
- Lubrizol Product Data View Study
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2017, Volume 36, Supplement 2, pages 59S-88S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1091581817707927]
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Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica - Drug Research, May 2017, Volume 74, Number 3, pages 937-943 [https://www.ptfarm.pl/pub/File/Acta_Poloniae/2017/3/937.pdf]
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SpecialChem INCI entry [https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/inci/acrylates-c10-30-alkyl-acrylate-crosspolymer]
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Lubrizol Product Data [https://www.lubrizol.com/Personal-Care/Products/Product-Finder/Products-Data/Pemulen-TR-2-polymeric-emulsifier]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Take the skin quizOther forms of Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is the common form.
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