Sodium Polymethacrylate
AKA: Polymer Thickener
Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Clean
2-Propenoic acid, 2-methyl-, homopolymer, sodium salt
CAS #
25086-62-8
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
Traditional Use
A synthetic polymer developed in the mid-20th century. Used in cosmetics as a film-forming and thickening agent to improve texture and stability.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR