Ingredient deep-dive
Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer: Is It a Microplastic?
Acrylic thickener that also carries a PEG-type chain, so it appears in both the acrylate and ethoxylate discussions. Functions as a rheology modifier.
Where it appears
- Body washes
- Thickened cleansers
- Shampoo
Regulatory status (2026)
European Union
Permitted.
United States
No federal restriction.
Cleaner alternatives
- Xanthan gum
- Coco-glucoside thickening systems
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Related ingredients
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Cross-linked acrylic polymer thickener. Same plastic family as Acrylates Copolymer.
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Cross-linked polyacrylic acid thickener. Synthetic polymer, though much smaller particles than microbeads.
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Acrylate / vinyl polymer · Medium concern
Polymer thickener / absorbent. Plastic family used in absorbent gels and lotions.
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