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Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

What Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer is & what it does

A cross-linked form of hyaluronic acid that swells with water and resists being washed or rubbed away, giving longer-lasting surface hydration. It also adds a smooth, cushiony skin feel.

What is Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer and what does it do in sunscreen?

It is a cross-linked form of sodium hyaluronate, the salt of hyaluronic acid, used as a humectant. The cross-linking lets it swell with water and resist being rubbed or washed away, so it gives longer-lasting surface hydration than plain hyaluronic acid. In a sunscreen it helps the skin feel smooth and cushiony without adding heaviness.

Is Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer safe?

Yes. It is a hydrating ingredient closely related to hyaluronic acid, which the skin already contains, and it is very well tolerated. It works on the surface to hold water rather than reacting with the skin, and it suits sensitive skin well. Reactions are uncommon.

Does Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer clog pores?

Generally no. It is a water-loving humectant, not an oil or wax, so it is not considered a pore-clogging ingredient. It is a common choice in lightweight, gel and oil-free sunscreens precisely because it hydrates without feeling greasy.

What is the difference between Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer and hyaluronic acid?

They are closely related. Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form of hyaluronic acid, and the crosspolymer version is cross-linked so it holds onto water more stubbornly on the skin. That cross-linking is what gives it longer-lasting, more cushiony hydration compared with plain hyaluronic acid.

Is Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer vegan?

It usually is. Modern cosmetic hyaluronate is most often produced by fermentation rather than from animal sources, which makes it suitable for vegan formulas. If strict vegan sourcing matters to you, the brand can confirm how their specific grade is made.

Sunscreens with Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

We rate 185 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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