Ingredient deep-dive

Acrylates Copolymer: Is It a Microplastic?

High concernAcrylate / vinyl polymer

Synthetic film-forming plastic used widely in makeup, sunscreens, and hair fixatives.

Where it appears

Sunscreen (water-resistance booster)
Long-wear foundation
Hair spray and styling gel
Brow gel

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Leave-on synthetic polymers restricted with phased compliance through 2027.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

Plant-derived xanthan gum
Cassia gum

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Acrylates Copolymer — common questions

Is Acrylates Copolymer a microplastic?

Yes. Synthetic film-forming plastic used widely in makeup, sunscreens, and hair fixatives.

Is Acrylates Copolymer banned?

EU: Leave-on synthetic polymers restricted with phased compliance through 2027. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of Acrylates Copolymer?

Cleaner alternatives include: Plant-derived xanthan gum; Cassia gum.

What products contain Acrylates Copolymer?

Commonly found in: Sunscreen (water-resistance booster); Long-wear foundation; Hair spray and styling gel; Brow gel.

Related ingredients

Acrylates Crosspolymer

Acrylate / vinyl polymer · High concern

Cross-linked acrylic polymer thickener. Same plastic family as Acrylates Copolymer.

Carbomer

Acrylate / vinyl polymer · Medium concern

Cross-linked polyacrylic acid thickener. Synthetic polymer, though much smaller particles than microbeads.

Polyacrylate

Acrylate / vinyl polymer · Medium concern

Polymer thickener / absorbent. Plastic family used in absorbent gels and lotions.

Methacrylate Copolymers

Acrylate / vinyl polymer · High concern

Acrylic plastic family used in nail products and long-wear formulas.