Safety Assessment of Cross-Linked Alkyl Acrylates as Used in Cosmetics

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel assessed the safety of cross-linked alkyl acrylates as used in cosmetics. The 23 cross-linked alkyl acrylates included in this safety assessment are reported to function as absorbents, film formers, emulsion stabilizers, viscosity increasing agents, suspending agents, binders, and/or skin-conditioning agents. The Panel reviewed available animal and clinical data, as well as information from previous CIR reports on monomer components. Because data were not available for the individual ingredients, and because residual monomer may be present, the Panel extrapolated from previous reports to support safety. The Panel concluded that cross-linked alkyl acrylates are safe in the present practices of use and concentration, provided that they are not polymerized in benzene. For those ingredients polymerized in benzene, the data available were insufficient to make a determination of safety. A risk assessment for the amount of benzene present would be needed.