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SODIUM POLYACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER-1.

Valuable / FILM FORMING, SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

SODIUM POLYACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER-1 is a precision polymer engineered to optimize skincare formulations. It primarily functions as a potent thickener and emulsion stabilizer, while also acting as a film-forming agent that enhances skin hydration and softness.

Film-forming agent Emollient Thickener Rheology modifier Emulsion stabilizer Emulsifier Hydrator

Science

This ingredient operates by forming a stable, flexible hydrogel network when hydrated. Through hydrogen bonding, this network efficiently absorbs and retains substantial quantities of water, creating a continuous, protective layer on the skin. This mechanism not only contributes to significant hydration and an emollient effect but also substantially increases the viscosity of formulations, stabilizes oil-in-water systems, and refines product texture.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 2 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Gels formulated with this crosspolymer exhibit stability within a pH range of 2 to 8, making it suitable for a broad spectrum of acidic or neutral products. It remains stable in the presence of common active ingredients, including various alpha hydroxy acids (e.g., glycolic, mandelic), hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and retinoids, without adverse chemical reactions. It can be cold-processed for ease of integration and disperses readily in water. Its fine gel structure ensures optimal stability across diverse temperature conditions. For cream-gel production, it can be incorporated into the oil phase to facilitate emulsification.

Synergies

  • Fatty alcohols (e.g., cetyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol) for enhanced texture and skin feel.

Conflicts

  • High concentrations of electrolytes/salts may lead to a reduction in viscosity, though it demonstrates superior resistance compared to carbomers.

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
6%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed crosslinked alkyl acrylates, including Sodium Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-1, safe for cosmetic use under current practices and concentrations, provided they are not polymerized in benzene. Related ingredient, undiluted Sodium Polyacrylate, has demonstrated no irritation or sensitization in human subjects. The FDA generally considers polyacrylates safe for cosmetic applications when formulated to prevent irritation.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

SODIUM POLYACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER-1 is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, offering robust formulation stabilization and thickening, alongside skin-benefiting hydration and emollient properties, with a low risk of irritation across all skin types.


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