Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Steareth-20, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Acrylates Copolymer
A synthetic polymer that blends steareth-20 with one or more forms of methacrylic acid | Used as a thickening agent in skin care and hair care products
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer?
Acrylates/steareth-20 methacrylate copolymer is a synthetic polymer that blends steareth-20 with one or more forms of methacrylic acid. It functions as a thickening agent in skin care and hair care products. Research has found that unlike some other polymers used in cosmetics, acrylates/steareth-20 methacrylate copolymer rinses more easily from skin and hair, making it more desirable for use.
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review board has found acrylates/steareth-20 methacrylate copolymer safe as used in cosmetics. Typical concentration range is from 0.75–1%.
Clinical Evidence & References
References:
- International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2017, Volume 36, Supplement 5, pages 59S-88S View Study
- International Journal of Research in Cosmetic Science, February 2016, Volume 6, Issue 1, pages 6-16 View Study
- Cosmetic Nanotechnology: Polymers and Colloids in Cosmetics, April 2007, Chapter 1, pages 3-56 View Study
- Contact Dermatitis Cutaneous Allergy Environmental and Occupational Dermatitis, November 2006, Volume 55, Issue 5, pages 257-267 View Study
Published Research
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International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2017, Volume 36, Supplement 5, pages 59S-88S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581817707927]
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International Journal of Research in Cosmetic Science, February 2016, Volume 6, Issue 1, pages 6-16 [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301221021_Advancements_in_polymers_used_in_hair_care_a_review]
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Cosmetic Nanotechnology: Polymers and Colloids in Cosmetics, April 2007, Chapter 1, pages 3-56 [https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/bk-2007-0961]
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Contact Dermatitis Cutaneous Allergy Environmental and Occupational Dermatitis, November 2006, Volume 55, Issue 5, pages 257-267 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1600-0536.2006.00960.x]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Take the skin quizOther forms of Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer is the common form.
Related Ingredients
Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer
A synthetic polymer that blends steareth-20 with one or more forms of methacrylic acid
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Primarily functions as a polymeric emulsifier
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
Primarily functions as a polymeric emulsifier | Used to enhance the texture of skin care and hair care products
Acrylates/Stearyl Methacrylate Copolymer
A synthetic polymer that stabilises emulsions and maintains consistent product texture
Acrylonitrile …
A synthetic polymer film-former used primarily in cosmetic texture and stability
Adipic Acid/Neopentyl Glycol Crosspolymer
A film-forming polymer that regulates texture and absorption in powder and liquid formulations
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