Even though its lengthy name does not give it away, this polymer molecule is related to Carbomer which is very prevalent and loves water. Both of them are huge molecules which contain acrylic acid components, yet Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer furthermore consists of some other monomers that are hydrophobic, i.e. have an aversion to water.

This implies that our molecule is half water-loving and half oil-loving, in this way it works not only as a thickener but also as a stabilizer for emulsions. It is normal in gel-type formulas that also contain an oil-part, in addition to in cleansers since it additionally works with numerous cleansing agents (unlike many other thickeners).