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Acrylates Copolymer

The film former.

What it does

A plastic-based polymer that forms a thin film. It helps hold styles, suspends beads in gels and helps makeup and nail polish stay put.

Good to know

The only safety review found is from the US industry panel (CIR), which found it safe as used in cosmetics.

Often found in: Shower gels, Shampoos, Sunscreens, Nail polishes

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: No special limit in the EU or UK. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

No independent safety review found. The only review is industry-funded.

• CIR: Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Acrylates Copolymer and 33 Related Cosmetic Ingredients (2002) (Industry-funded)