The present invention relates to a method for purifying an unpurified phase, containing a target product, preferably (meth)acrylic acid, water, and at least one impurity differing from the target product and from water comprising: a) crystallizing the target product and water; b) separating the crystals from the mother liquor created in step a); c) melting at least part of the separated crystals to form a melt; and d) recycling at least part of said melt to step b). The invention further relates to a method for the production of a purified phase, containing a target product and water, a method for the production of a polymer based on (meth)acrylic acid, polymers that may be obtained by means of said method, chemical products, such as fibers or molded bodies, and the use of polymers.