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Moumoujus

CALCIUM/SODIUM PVM/MA COPOLYMER.

Valuable CAS 94290-13-8 / FILM FORMING, HAIR FIXING

A high-performance synthetic polymer engineered to serve as a breathable, bioadhesive shield on the skin's surface. It creates a flexible, uniform matrix that locks in moisture while defending against environmental stressors without penetrating the skin barrier.

Summary

film former bioadhesive barrier protectant binding agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This high-molecular-weight copolymer functions through surface-level film formation. By cross-linking with calcium and sodium ions, it creates a structural, slightly tacky lattice that reinforces the stratum corneum. This physical barrier significantly reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and mitigates mechanical friction, acting as a secondary skin layer that remains entirely non-systemic.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–10%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated zero cytotoxicity in human epithelial models, confirming its safety as a non-reactive film former.
  2. 02 Established a durable and flexible bioadhesive film that measurably enhanced barrier function and reduced surface shear forces.
  3. 03 Shown to provide effective adhesive force in bioadhesive delivery systems without inducing toxicity in human fibroblasts.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.1%

While safe at very low levels (0.1%) for basic binding, its functional benefits for skin barrier reinforcement and bioadhesion are typically only realized at concentrations of 1% or higher. Formulations listing this at the very end of the INCI list may only be using it as a secondary stabilizer rather than a functional barrier agent.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Slowly soluble in aqueous solutions, producing high-viscosity amber liquids. While chemically stable across a broad pH range (2-10), its performance as a salt-based polymer is maximized in the skin-neutral range of 5.5 to 7.0.

Synergies

  • Humectants
  • Barrier lipids
  • Antifungal agents

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Cationic surfactants
  • Strong acids
  • Strong bases

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
40%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Its extremely large molecular weight makes systemic absorption impossible, leading the CIR and FDA to approve its use even in oral and food-contact applications at high concentrations (up to 40%).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An exceptional, non-penetrating film-former that provides a robust physical defense for the skin barrier with an impeccable safety profile.

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