Sodium Polymethacrylate

Sodium Polymethacrylate 1
photograph
AKA: Polymer Thickener
Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from methacrylic acid, a petroleum-based chemical compound in the acrylic polymer family. Synthesized through free radical polymerization of methacrylic acid monomers, then neutralized with sodium hydroxide.
2-Propenoic acid, 2-methyl-, homopolymer, sodium salt
CAS #
25086-62-8
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
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.
Opacifying
Viscosity Controlling
Anti-Inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Fights Acne
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.063–3.4%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2018 survey
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR