Anionic copolymer based on acrylic acid. A water-phase thickener and emulsion stabiliser with high water-holding capacity. Used in gel-creams, serums, and cleansing gels. Differs in structure and function from the simpler Acrylates Copolymer.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Functional component with no standalone skin effect. Safety per CIR assessment is favourable.
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer (Sodium Polyacrylate) is an anionic synthetic polymer based on acrylic acid. One of the most popular 'superabsorbents' – capable of absorbing water 200-300× its own mass (the same polymer class used in diapers and hygiene products). In cosmetics – a water-phase thickener and emulsion stabilizer with high water-holding capacity. Difference from Acrylates Copolymer. Names sound similar but these are different molecules. Acrylates Copolymer – non-ionic film-former (in hair products and water-resistant sunscreens). Sodium Acrylates Copolymer – ionic, for water-phase thickening and moisture retention. Not interchangeable. Where applied. Gel-creams, serums, cleansing gels, hydrating masks, stretch-mark products (0.2-3%). In Spain in Sesderma, Bioderma, Mussvital, in formulas marketed with '72-hour hydration'. Particularly common in products with a high water-phase share. Safety. CIR confirmed sodium acrylates copolymer safety (Final Report 2002, 2018 review). Large molecules, do not penetrate intact epidermis. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Suitable for sensitive skin. Acrylamide controversy. Some older Sodium Acrylates Copolymers were produced with acrylamide as a stabilizer – acrylamide is IARC class 2A (probable human carcinogen). Modern formulas use acrylamide-free copolymers (made by alternative technologies). Acrylamide should not appear as an ingredient on the label. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. A polymeric ingredient, no systemic absorption. No restrictions in any product.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Sodium Acrylates Copolymer suits: normal, dry, combination, oily.
Anionic copolymer based on acrylic acid.
The INCI name is Sodium Acrylates Copolymer. It may also appear as: Sodium Acrylates/Acrylamide Copolymer, Sodium Polyacrylate, Сополимер акрилатов натрия.
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