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Moumoujus

SODIUM STYRENE/METHOXY PEG-10 MALEATE/NONOXYNOL-10 MALEATE/ACRYLATES COPOLYMER.

Questionable / OPACIFYING

This complex synthetic copolymer functions primarily as a versatile film-former, texture enhancer, and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations. It contributes to product viscosity and creates a protective layer on the skin.

Summary

Film-forming agent Stabilizing agent Thickening agent Moisturizing agent Conditioning agent Surfactant Solubilizing agent Opacifying agent Consistency enhancer Humectant

Science

Mechanism of Action

The copolymer's efficacy stems from its multi-component structure. The styrene moiety is responsible for forming a resilient film on the skin or hair, while acrylate units enhance the film's flexibility and strength. Methoxy PEG-10 Maleate incorporates moisturizing and conditioning benefits, and Nonoxynol-10 Maleate serves as a surfactant and solubilizer, facilitating even dispersion of ingredients. Additionally, it acts as an opacifying agent, reducing product translucency, and is instrumental in forming desirable gel-like textures.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted

Concerns exist regarding respiratory health when this copolymer is used in inhalable forms, such as sprays or powders, due to the potential for inhalation of fine particles.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Conflicts

  • Inhalable product forms (e.g., sprays, powders) due to documented respiratory concerns.
  • Formulations seeking organic or certified natural status, as ethoxylated substances are typically not permitted within these standards.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Moderate

While the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Panel deemed related styrene/acrylates copolymers safe in 2014, significant concerns have been raised by the European Commission regarding the safety of nano forms of these copolymers, citing insufficient toxicological data. This ingredient is an ethoxylated substance, carrying a risk of contamination by impurities such as ethylene oxide (a known carcinogen) and 1,4-dioxane. The EWG permits its use in VERIFIED products only under strict restrictions and warnings based on company data, with scores increasing for inhalable forms or presence of toxic impurities. Sinaí Estética labels it as 'very doubtful' due to its ethoxylated nature and associated carcinogenic impurity concerns.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

Despite its functional utility as a film-former and texture enhancer, this ingredient raises significant safety concerns due to potential ethoxylation-related impurities and a lack of comprehensive safety data for its nano forms, particularly in inhalable applications.

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