Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate
High-molecular-weight anionic polymer – stabilizer and film-former in makeup and hair care. In skincare appears rarely, usually in sunscreens and long-wear foundations. Does not penetrate the skin.
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
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate (SPS) is a high-MW anionic polymer. In medicine it is taken orally to correct hyperkalemia. In cosmetics it serves as a stabiliser and film-former in colour cosmetics and some sunscreens. Mechanism. The molecule is large and does not penetrate the skin. Forms a thin surface film that fixes pigments and improves product water-resistance. In shampoos and styling products it works as a fixative. Where applied. Long-wear foundations, some water-resistant sunscreens, mascaras, hair products. Rare in skincare. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations. No systemic absorption through intact skin. Non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – safe in cosmetic formats. Medical oral SPS – by prescription only.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate safe during pregnancy?
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate for?
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate and what does it do in cosmetics?
High-molecular-weight anionic polymer – stabilizer and film-former in makeup and hair care.
What's the INCI name for Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate?
The INCI name is Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate. It may also appear as: SPS.
See Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Sodium Potassium Aluminum Silicate, Sodium Pyruvate, Sodium Saccharin, Sodium Salicylate, Behenyl Beeswax, Diethanolamine, Maris Sal (Sea Salt), Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
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