Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Sodium Polyacrylate?
Sodium polyacrylate is a versatile, synthetic polymer used as a film-forming agent, emulsion stabilizer, absorbent, thickening agent, and emollient. In its raw form it is a granular white powder.
Sodium polyacrylate belongs to a class of polymers called super absorbent polymers (or SAPs). It’s considered as such because of its ability to absorb 100–1000 times its mass in water. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled sodium polymethacrylate safe as used in cosmetics. Amounts between 0.3–1.4% are typically all it takes to achieve this ingredient’s many formulary traits.
In addition to its use as an absorbent in skin products, it is used in commercial applications, such as a gelling agent for disposable diapers and sanitary napkins. It is also a food additive to help thicken certain foods and preserve them for longer periods of time.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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International Food Research Journal, February 2021, pages 44 - 55 [URL not provided]
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Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, March 2018, pages 1,611-1,614 [URL not provided]
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Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, November 2014, pages 18,346-18,351 [URL not provided]
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Journal of Applied Polymer Science, November 2001, pages 1,515-1,520 [URL not provided]
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United States Patent, April 2000, ePublication [URL not provided]
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https://www.socochem.com/is-sodium-polyacrylate-safe.html [https://www.socochem.com/is-sodium-polyacrylate-safe.html]
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https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/acryco092018TAR.pdf [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/acryco092018TAR.pdf]
From the Clinic
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PPG-6
A humectant and solvent that helps formulations blend whilst supporting skin hydration
Propanediol
Also known as 1,3-propanediol | Improves absorption of ingredients to their boost effectiveness in skin
Purified Water
Purified water is a commonly used solvent, often appearing first
Sodium Xylenesulfonate
A solubiliser that helps other ingredients dissolve evenly in formulations
T-Butyl Alcohol
A solvent and denaturant used to dissolve actives and carry fragrance in formulations
Water
The most widely used cosmetic ingredient Typically appears as the first ingredient in skin care products
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