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AMMONIUM STYRENE/ACRYLATES COPOLYMER.

Valuable / FILM FORMING, OPACIFYING

A synthetic polymer that creates protective, water-resistant films on skin surfaces while providing opacity to cosmetic formulations. This multifunctional ingredient excels at locking pigments and UV filters in place, making it particularly valuable in long-wearing and waterproof products.

film former opacifying agent texture enhancer waterproofing agent

Science

Forms interlocking polymer chains that create a continuous, flexible film barrier on skin surfaces, effectively trapping pigments and active ingredients while providing water-resistance and opacity to formulations


Research

High confidence
Effective range 30–50%
Optimal

30%

Key findings

  1. 01 30% concentration demonstrated practically non-irritating properties in ocular irritation testing (CIR 2018)
  2. 02 Concentrations exceeding 50% showed no significant systemic toxicity due to large molecular weight preventing skin penetration (CIR Final Report)

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

As a film-forming polymer, this ingredient serves essential functional purposes that cannot be easily replicated by trace amounts


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 7 – 8.5
0 7 14

Stability

Requires alkaline conditions for stability; supplied as 30% aqueous dispersion; susceptible to acid-shock precipitation below neutral pH

Synergies

  • UV filters
  • pigments
  • film-forming agents

Conflicts

  • cationic surfactants
  • strong acids
  • multivalent metal ions (calcium, magnesium)

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
50%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Primary safety concern involves potential residual monomer contamination, though cosmetic-grade materials maintain strict control at <20 ppm


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

A reliable film-forming polymer that enhances product performance and longevity with excellent safety profile across all skin types.


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