Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, also known as HASE, is a synthetic polymer known for its versatile role in the world of skincare and cosmetics.
Formed by the reaction of hydroxyethyl acrylate and sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate, this compound is celebrated for its effectiveness in product formulation and for its dermatological safety.
Hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer is a multi-functional polymeric ingredient that can be used to stabilize emulsions and control viscosity.
HASE is used in an array of skincare products, including creams, lotions, and serums. It serves multiple functions in skincare formulations, chiefly:
Dispersing Agent: HASE aids in distributing particles evenly throughout a formulation, preventing clumping and settling. This ensures that the active ingredients in a product are evenly spread out for optimal effectiveness.
Emulsion Stabilizer: As an emulsifying agent, HASE helps to mix oil and water components in a formulation, maintaining the consistency and integrity of the product.
Opacifying Agent: It lends a certain degree of opacity to skincare formulations, contributing to the product's aesthetic appeal.
Viscosity Controlling Agent: HASE plays a vital role in controlling the thickness or fluidity of the product, allowing for a pleasant application experience.
This ingredient works by forming a gel-like network within water or oil, which both stabilizes the other ingredients and produces a thickening effect.
The sensorial profile of hydroxyethyl acrylate/sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer is pleasant, with a satiny and light finish.
Supplied as a powder, this ingredient is easy to formulate with, as it can withstand hot processing and can also be cold processed.
These characteristics make HASE an integral part of many skincare products, enhancing their texture, effectiveness, and overall aesthetic appeal.
The safety of skincare ingredients is a major concern for consumers, and rightly so. HASE, in this regard, is generally considered safe for topical use.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has evaluated its safety, concluding that it's safe as a cosmetic ingredient in the present practices of use and concentrations. It is also considered non-sensitizing, non-irritating, and non-toxic.