Common Name(s): Acrylic acid/vp crosspolymer,acrylates/vp crosspolymer,acrylic-vinylpyrrolidone polymer

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Thickens water-based products and creates a film on skin or hair to improve hold and texture.

Why It's Used: Used as a thickener and binder in hair styling products and skin care where both film-forming and viscosity control are required in clear or translucent formulas.

How It Works: Crosslinked acrylic acid backbone (anionic polyelectrolyte) swells in water upon neutralization; vp units increase surface affinity to hair/skin and improve film flexibility.

Typically Found In: Hair gels,styling products,clear serums,setting sprays,skin primers

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – viscosity controlling

Secondary Functions: Film forming,binding,skin conditioning

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Synthetic polymer; acrylate/vinylpyrrolidone copolymer.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally non-irritating; rare contact sensitization possible at high concentrations. acrylic acid residual monomer levels regulated in eu (max 0.1%).

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Neutralizing agents (naoh/tea),humectants,styling polymers,preservatives

Avoid Combining With: Do not use without neutralization (acidic ph causes poor swelling)

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Acrylic acid/vp crosspolymers combine the anionic charge of polyacrylic acid with the hydrophilic, substantive properties of pvp; crosslinking creates a gel-network without dissolution; hlb and ph of system affects swelling efficiency.

Last Verified: Cosing database,inci dictionary,supplier technical data sheets

Primary Sources: 2026-03-27