Sodium Polyacrylate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polymer Thickener
Synthetic
Emollient
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Clean
2-Propenoic acid, homopolymer, sodium salt
CAS #
9003-04-7, 25549-84-2
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
Traditional Use
A synthetic superabsorbent polymer developed in the 1960s-70s. Used in cosmetics as a thickening and gelling agent, particularly in creams and lotions.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR