murphySodium Polyacrylate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polymer Thickener
Synthetic
Emollient
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Clean
OriginSodium polyacrylate is synthesized from acrylic acid, a petroleum-derived chemical compound in the acrylate family. It is produced through free radical polymerization of acrylic acid monomers, typically initiated by peroxide catalysts.
2-Propenoic acid, homopolymer, sodium salt
CAS #
9003-04-7, 25549-84-2
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Absorbent
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Hair Fixing
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks In Moisture
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Skin Irritant
2 studies / 2 not irritating (CIR 283)
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 283)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
2 studies / 2 mixed (CIR 283)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.0001–29.7%
Rinse-off0.0002–1.5%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2018 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR