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Moumoujus

SODIUM POLYMETHACRYLATE.

Valuable CAS 25086-62-8 / BINDING, EMULSION STABILISING, FILM FORMING, OPACIFYING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Sodium Polymethacrylate is a synthetic polymer widely utilized in skincare as a multi-functional ingredient. It primarily acts as a thickening agent, emulsion stabilizer, and film-former, contributing to product texture and skin barrier support.

Summary

Film-former Thickening agent Gelling agent Emulsion stabilizer Humectant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This polymer functions by absorbing and retaining significant volumes of water, creating a gel-like substance that forms a protective film on the skin's surface. This superficial barrier actively attracts and holds moisture, effectively reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and enhancing overall skin hydration. Due to its substantial molecular size and cross-linked structure, Sodium Polymethacrylate remains on the skin's outermost layers without deep penetration.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 An ophthalmic study reported an IC50 (concentration inhibiting 50% cell growth) of approximately 1% w/w for linear poly(sodium methacrylate) in human retinal epithelial cells (ARPE-19). This data indicates its biocompatibility limit in a specific medical application, not direct skincare efficacy.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The provided research does not contain information regarding the 'dusting' characteristic or threshold for Sodium Polymethacrylate.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 6 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Similar to Sodium Polyacrylate, this ingredient is effective in thickening aqueous solutions and stabilizing emulsions. It demonstrates robust mechanical stability and high resistance to heat. Aqueous solutions typically maintain stability within a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.

Conflicts

  • High concentrations of calcium (Ca++) and magnesium (Mg++) ions can diminish its water solubility and performance.
  • Should be stored separately from strong oxidizing agents.
  • High levels of residual acrylic acid, a manufacturing impurity, must be avoided to prevent potential irritation.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
3%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated Sodium Polyacrylate, a chemically analogous polymer, as safe for cosmetic use when formulated to be non-irritating, a determination generally applied to Sodium Polymethacrylate. Global regulatory bodies, including the US FDA and European Cosmetics Regulation, permit its use. While generally non-irritating at concentrations up to 3%, individuals with pre-existing skin conditions or heightened sensitivity may experience minor reactions. It is crucial to minimize residual acrylic acid impurities during manufacturing to further reduce irritation potential.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium Polymethacrylate is a valuable cosmetic ingredient, primarily acting as a reliable thickener, stabilizer, and surface-level hydrator with an established safety profile comparable to similar polymers, making it suitable for a broad range of skin types.

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