What is methyl methacrylate crosspolymer? Its safety and environmental impact

Searching for truly gentle cosmetics

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the ingredients contained in cosmetics and their impact on the environment.

It is said that there are more than 10,000 different types of cosmetic ingredients in total. Not all of these ingredients are friendly to humans or the earth, as some can be irritating to the skin or accumulate in the environment.

For example, a component called methyl methacrylate crosspolymer.

It is used in many cosmetics because it makes the texture smooth and improves the feel when used. It is a highly functional ingredient, but what about its safety and environmental impact?

This article provides a detailed explanation of methyl methacrylate crosspolymer.

Related article: Eco-friendly packaging does not necessarily mean the cosmetic is "friendly"

What is methyl methacrylate crosspolymer?

Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer is a synthetic polymer used in cosmetics.

It fills in the unevenness of the skin and makes it feel smooth. It also plays a role in increasing the stability of cosmetics so that they do not separate or change in quality. I have the impression that it is often used in foundations, powders, primers, etc.

The light texture covers uneven skin tone without a thick feeling. It also has improved water resistance and durability.
It's an excellent ingredient that gives you a natural finish and makes your makeup last longer.

What effect does methyl methacrylate crosspolymer have on the skin? Is it safe?

I'm glad it's functionally excellent.
But what about safety? Can you put it on your skin every day?
The safety of these ingredients has been confirmed by internationally recognized experts. Let's take a closer look at each one.

Safety evaluation by the Environmental Working Group (EWG)

EWG is an American organization that evaluates the safety of cosmetic ingredients on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the lowest risk and 10 being the highest risk. Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer is rated as low risk 1 to 2. It has low skin irritation and allergy potential. It is unlikely to cause skin problems even if used daily.

Safety evaluation by CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review)

Next, what is the evaluation by CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), a global safety evaluation organization? This report also concluded that the use of methyl methacrylate crosspolymer in cosmetics is generally safe . It is not easily absorbed through the skin, and it poses no problems to the skin or body even with long-term use.

Does methyl methacrylate crosspolymer clog pores?

Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer is basically a large molecule. In other words, it is larger than skin tissue. Therefore, it cannot penetrate deep into the skin. Therefore, it is generally thought that it is unlikely to clog pores.

However, depending on your skin type and how you use it, there is still a chance that it may clog your pores.

In particular, if used with cosmetics that contain a lot of oil or if not washed off thoroughly, it may cause clogged pores.

Polymers may trap sebum

Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer may form an artificial thin film on the surface of the skin.

This membrane can prevent the excretion of sebum and oil, causing sebum to accumulate in the pores.
When that sebum oxidizes, it can lead to blackheads and pores. The same thing can also be the cause of bumps on the nose.

What's more, polymer films can also interfere with the skin's natural turnover. When turnover is disrupted, old dead skin cells and dirt can easily become clogged in the pores. This creates a vicious cycle that makes acne and breakouts more likely to occur.

Excess oil causes acne

Rich creams and foundations contain a lot of oil, which can stimulate excess sebum production.

If such cosmetics contain synthetic polymers such as methyl methacrylate crosspolymer, the polymer film will trap excess sebum and dirt underneath the polymer.

This can not only clog your pores but can also lead to enlarged pores.

Proper cleansing is important to prevent such pore problems and acne.

When using cosmetics that contain film-forming ingredients, be sure to cleanse properly so as not to leave a polymer film on your skin.

Environmental Impact of Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer: The Problem of "Microplastics"

Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer is generally considered safe for the skin, but its impact on the environment cannot be overlooked.

The cosmetics we use every day are washed away and end up in the water environment. In particular, there is concern overseas that synthetic polymers will remain in the ocean and rivers as microplastics.

Related article: Four hidden risks of microplastic ingredients in cosmetics

Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer and microplastics

Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer is a tiny solid polymer that is sometimes considered a microplastic because it is used in some products in particulate form.

These synthetic polymers are called " liquid microplastics " in Europe.

Liquid microplastics are synthetic substances that are difficult to decompose naturally and accumulate in water and soil over long periods of time.
There is also the risk that fish and other aquatic organisms may accidentally ingest the material, which is causing serious problems with marine pollution and its impact on ecosystems.

Opinion of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)

The European Chemicals Agency, ECHA , has also expressed concern about the environmental impact of microplastics such as methyl methacrylate crosspolymer.

For this reason, ECHA is proposing EU regulations in 2020 to restrict the use of intentionally added microplastics in cosmetics.

Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer is considered to fall under this regulation depending on its shape and particle size.

summary

Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer adds a smooth feel and excellent functionality to cosmetics.

However, on the other hand, we cannot ignore the negative impact that cosmetics have on the environment. When choosing cosmetics, we should check the ingredient list and remember to be considerate of the global environment.