Sodium Acrylates Copolymer
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Synthetic polymer with multiple uses in cosmetics | Help stabilise, suspend and bind key ingredients
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Acrylates Copolymer?
Sodium acrylates copolymer is a synthetic, acrylic-based, salt-derived polymer that functions in cosmetics as a texture enhancer, binder, and film-forming agent.
A large group of acrylates copolymers, including this one, has been extensively studied and deemed safe for use in cosmetic products “when formulated to avoid irritation”. This means using highly purified copolymers to avoid residues (known as monomers) that can irritate skin. follows this practice whenever we use acrylate ingredients.
Concentrations of sodium acrylates copolymer range from 0.5% when used to enhance texture, stabilize, or suspend ingredients in an emulsion (a mix of oil- and water-soluble ingredients). Amounts up to 25% may be used when the goal is film-forming or binding agent.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Journal of Preventive Medicine and Hygiene, March 2019, pages E50–E57 [https://europepmc.org/article/med/31041411]
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International Journal of Toxicology, October 2017, pages 59S–88S [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320376034_Safety_Assessment_of_Cross-Linked_Alkyl_Acrylates_as_Used_in_Cosmetics]
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International Journal of Toxicology, November 2002, Supplement 3, pages 1-50 [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/10941612_Final_Report_on_the_Safety_Assessment_of_Acrylates_Copolymer_and_33_Related_Cosmetic_Ingredients]
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- SODIUM ACRYLATES COPOLYMER
- EC Number
- -
- Function
- Binding, Film Forming, Opa CI Fying, Viscosity Controlling
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