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Moumoujus

METHYL METHACRYLATE.

Avoid CAS 80-62-6 / ANTICAKING, OPACIFYING

Methyl Methacrylate is a foundational monomer primarily utilized to synthesize various polymers, such as Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) and Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer. While the monomer itself is recognized as a potent irritant and sensitizer, its polymerized derivatives are valued in cosmetics for their oil-absorbing, texture-enhancing, and light-diffusing properties.

Summary

Allergen (as unreacted monomer) Irritant (as unreacted monomer) Precursor for cosmetic polymers (e.g., oil-absorbing, film-forming)

Science

Mechanism of Action

In its monomeric state, Methyl Methacrylate acts as a direct irritant and sensitizer to the skin, capable of inducing type IV delayed hypersensitivity reactions. Conversely, when fully polymerized into forms like PMMA or Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, it functions as an effective oil-absorbing agent, helping to manage excess sebum. These polymers also serve as film-forming agents and texture enhancers, improving cosmetic feel and delivering a matte, light-diffusing finish that can optically minimize the appearance of fine lines and pores.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical data primarily supports the safety and cosmetic utility of Methyl Methacrylate's *polymerized* forms, such as Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, when used within concentrations like 0.1% to 14%.
  2. 02 The CIR Expert Panel reaffirmed the safety of Methyl Methacrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer for cosmetic use at 0.39% to 1.6%, underscoring the critical need to limit unreacted monomer levels below 0.01% (100 ppm).

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Methyl Methacrylate is a liquid monomer and is not directly used as a dusted powder. However, its polymerized derivatives, such as Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) or Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, are frequently employed as fine microspheres or powders in cosmetic formulations for effects like mattifying or texture enhancement.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Methyl Methacrylate is a reactive monomer prone to exothermic polymerization when subjected to heat or contamination by strong acids or bases. To maintain stability during storage and transport, inhibitors are typically added. In cosmetic applications, particularly for nail products, ensuring complete polymerization is paramount to minimize residual monomer, which is the primary concern for skin irritation and sensitization.

Conflicts

  • strong acids
  • strong bases
  • heat
  • contaminants that initiate polymerization

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
0.01%
Sensitization risk High

The CIR Expert Panel concludes that polymers derived from Methyl Methacrylate (e.g., PMMA, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer) are safe for cosmetic use, provided the concentration of unreacted Methyl Methacrylate monomer is strictly below 100 ppm (0.01%). The FDA previously removed 100% MMA-containing products from the market due to significant injury concerns. Direct dermal contact with Methyl Methacrylate monomer is strongly discouraged due to its classification as a potent skin irritant and sensitizer.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy High
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Methyl Methacrylate, in its unreacted monomeric form, poses a significant risk of irritation and sensitization, necessitating its strict avoidance in precision skincare formulations; its beneficial polymeric derivatives are safe only when monomer levels are rigorously controlled below 0.01%.

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