Polymethyl Methacrylate
Polymer microspheres. They give a soft matte feel, blur texture and improve slip. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic polymer in the form of fine spheres. INCI: Polymethyl Methacrylate. In a formula it works as a texturizing and soft-focus component: it visually smooths skin relief, mattifies, gives a smooth slip, and sometimes carries other substances. It is a functional sensory component, not a skincare active. It is used in primers, foundations, and pore-blurring creams. Environmental caveat. PMMA in microparticle form is classed as a synthetic microplastic, whose use in rinse-off products is being phased down in the EU under the REACH regulation. Manufacturers are moving to degradable alternatives. Pregnancy safety and tolerance. It is inert, does not penetrate skin, and its irritation and allergen potential are low. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polymethyl Methacrylate safe during pregnancy?
Polymethyl Methacrylate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Polymethyl Methacrylate for?
Polymethyl Methacrylate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Polymethyl Methacrylate and what does it do in cosmetics?
Polymer microspheres.
What's the INCI name for Polymethyl Methacrylate?
The INCI name is Polymethyl Methacrylate. It may also appear as: PMMA.
See Polymethyl Methacrylate in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polypropylsilsesquioxane, Polyquaternium-10, Polyquaternium-11, Sorbitan Olivate, C12-13 Alkyl Lactate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Myreth-3 Myristate
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