Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

STYRENE/METHACRYLAMIDE/ACRYLATES COPOLYMER.

Valuable CAS 28632-83-9 / FILM FORMING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Styrene/Methacrylamide/Acrylates Copolymer is a synthetic polymer engineered to create a protective, flexible film on the skin or hair. It primarily enhances product durability and water resistance, crucial for long-lasting formulations like sunscreens. Additionally, it improves texture and provides a degree of hydration by binding water.

Summary

Film-forming Viscosity controlling Water-resistant agent Hydration enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This copolymer forms a continuous, pliable, and cohesive film upon application, which adheres to the skin or hair surface. This barrier is instrumental in imparting water-resistance to formulations, particularly beneficial in sunscreens, and also contributes to skin hydration through its water-binding properties. Beyond its film-forming capabilities, it serves as a viscosity modifier, aiding in achieving desired product textures and stability.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

1%

Key findings

  1. 01 At a 1% concentration, a closely related copolymer, Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer, has been observed to enhance the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of sunscreen formulations by approximately 11-18%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

This polymer is typically formulated as a cold-process opaque white concentrate, suitable for dispersion in water-based systems like surfactant formulations. While the polymer itself is generally water-insoluble, it forms stable dispersions (latex). It can also exhibit solubility in specific aromatic or ketone solvents, depending on its precise composition.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed Styrene/Acrylates Copolymer safe for cosmetic application, largely due to its high molecular weight which results in minimal skin absorption. However, formulators must ensure strict control over potential contaminants: residual styrene, classified as a possible carcinogen, and for related acrylamide/acrylate copolymers, acrylamide monomer concentration should not exceed 5 ppm. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has indicated that it could not conclude on the safety of nano forms of Styrene/Acrylates copolymer at concentrations exceeding 0.06% in leave-on products.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

A valuable polymer for enhancing product durability, water resistance, and SPF efficacy, while contributing to formulation texture and hydration with a low risk of irritation.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…