Ingredient deep-dive

Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6: Is It a Microplastic?

Low concernAcrylate / vinyl polymer

Cross-linked acrylic gelling agent prized for a light, non-tacky feel. Synthetic polymer, gel network rather than particle.

Where it appears

Light gel moisturisers
Primers
Serums
Sunscreen

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted.

United States

No federal restriction.

Cleaner alternatives

Xanthan gum
Sclerotium gum

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Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, common questions

Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 a microplastic?

Borderline. Cross-linked acrylic gelling agent prized for a light, non-tacky feel. Synthetic polymer, gel network rather than particle.

Is Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 banned?

EU: Permitted. US: No federal restriction.

What can I use instead of Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6?

Cleaner alternatives include: Xanthan gum; Sclerotium gum.

What products contain Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6?

Commonly found in: Light gel moisturisers; Primers; Serums; Sunscreen.

Related ingredients

Acrylates Copolymer

Acrylate / vinyl polymer · High concern

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

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.