What is Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4?
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4, also known as Hyaluronic acid, polymer with 2,2′-[1,4-butanediylbis(oxymethylene)]bis[oxirane], is a synthetic derivative of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the human body. This ingredient is a complex of sodium hyaluronate with a polymeric structure that allows it to bind to water molecules, making it an excellent humectant and skin-conditioning agent.
The use of Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 in cosmetic products dates back to the early 2000s when scientists discovered its potential benefits for skin hydration and conditioning. It is produced through a process of polymerization, where sodium hyaluronate is cross-linked with 2,2′-[1,4-butanediylbis(oxymethylene)]bis[oxirane] to create a more stable and effective compound.
Compared to other similar ingredients like hyaluronic acid or sodium hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 has a unique cross-linked structure that provides it with a higher water-binding capacity. This means it can hold more water molecules, thus providing superior moisturizing and skin-conditioning effects.
What sets Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 apart from other similar ingredients is its ability to provide long-lasting hydration. Due to its cross-linked structure, it forms a water-binding film on the skin’s surface, which helps to maintain skin moisture for an extended period. This makes it an excellent choice for products aimed at providing long-lasting hydration and conditioning to the skin.
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its excellent water-binding and skin-conditioning properties make it a popular choice for products aimed at hydrating and conditioning the skin, improving skin texture, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4.
Humectant
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 serves as a humectant in cosmetic products. In layman’s terms, a humectant is a substance that helps retain or preserve moisture. This ingredient, therefore, plays a crucial role in keeping your skin hydrated. It does this by attracting water molecules and holding onto them, preventing the moisture from evaporating off your skin. This function is particularly beneficial in dry environments where the air can easily sap moisture from your skin.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother and softer. It achieves this by filling in the spaces between the skin cells, creating a smooth surface. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with rough or uneven skin texture, as it can help to create a more uniform and smooth appearance.
Emollient
As an emollient, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 helps to soften and soothe the skin. Emollients work by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin that traps water in the skin. This function is particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or flaky skin, as it can help to keep the skin moisturized and prevent dryness and flaking.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary.
While it is generally well-tolerated, some potential side effects of topical application of Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4 may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Redness
- Dryness
- Itching
These side effects are not common and are typically mild if they do occur. However, it is always recommended to conduct a patch test before using a new product containing Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer-4, or any new ingredient, to ensure you do not have an adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
