Thickener

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer

A unique cosmetic copolymer that combines gel formation with emulsifying function — does not require classic surfactants. Known under the trade names Sepineo™ P 600 or Aristoflex® AVC from Clariant. Allows the creation of transparent gels and "inverted" gel-cream emulsions with a light silky texture.

Copolymer emulsifierGel former without surfactantsAristoflexLight texture
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

INCI: Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer. A synthetic acrylic copolymer with hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments. Mechanism: associative thickener + self-emulsifier — can stabilize oil/water emulsions without classic emulsifiers. Characteristics: transparent/semi-transparent gel, non-sticky, light to the touch, stable pH 4–8. Uniqueness: allows the incorporation of oils into aqueous gels without traditional surfactant emulsifiers — "waterless feel" with moisture present. Concentration in products: 0.5–2%.

Transparent and semi-transparent gel-creams, light day moisturizers, "fluid" serums with stabilized oils, products with a minimalist INCI list.

Key Benefits

Gel formation + emulsification — without classic surfactants
The main unique property: this copolymer stabilizes oil/water emulsions without traditional surfactants (cetearyl alcohol, polysorbate). This opens up possibilities for formulations with a minimal INCI list and a gentle approach to the skin barrier. Result: transparent gel-emulsions with oil actives that maintain a light texture without a greasy feel.
Light silky texture — signature feel
Aristoflex® AVC / Sepineo™ P 600 are known among formulators for their characteristic "silky" texture: upon application — glides smoothly, no stickiness, quick absorption. This explains their popularity in K-beauty gel-creams and "water cream" formats. Compared to carbomer: less "rubbery," more natural touch. Compared to xanthan gum: lighter and less viscous base.
Wide compatibility and stability
The copolymer is stable at pH 4–8, compatible with most cosmetic actives (AHA/BHA at pH >4, peptides, vitamin C at pH >4, retinol). It withstands electrolytes better than standard carbomer. Does not require a neutralizer. Easily disperses in cold water. A COSMOS-certified option is available for natural cosmetics.

Suitable for

Oily skinCombination skinThose looking for light textures

Main Actions

✓ Gel formation without classic surfactants✓ Stabilization of oil/water without emulsifiers✓ Light silky texture
Aristoflex AVC vs Sepineo P 600

Aristoflex® AVC (Clariant): a classic option, widely known in the cosmetic industry. Sepineo™ P 600 (Seppic): identical INCI, but a different manufacturer. Functionally equivalent. Both: INCI = 'Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer' + often 'Squalane' or 'Isohexadecane' + 'Polysorbate 60' as a carrier. If these four components are present in the product — it is likely Aristoflex or Sepineo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer do for skin?
Transparent and semi-transparent gel-creams, light day moisturizers, "fluid" serums with stabilized oils, products with a minimalist INCI list.
Who should use Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer?
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is suitable for: Oily skin, Combination skin, Those looking for light textures.
Are there any warnings about Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer?
Aristoflex® AVC (Clariant): a classic option, widely known in the cosmetic industry. Sepineo™ P 600 (Seppic): identical INCI, but a different manufacturer. Functionally equivalent. Both: INCI = 'Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer' + often 'Squalane' o

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