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Thickener

Sodium Polyacrylate

Synthetic superabsorbent polymer based on polyacrylic acid. The most common gelling agent in aqueous cosmetic formulations — from light toners to thick facial gels. Retains water at 1000× its own weight, giving formulations a characteristic gel texture.

superabsorbent polymergelling agentthickenermoisture retention
✓ Safe
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
Irritation Potential
0/5

What is it?

Sodium Polyacrylate — synthetic anionic polymer. Molecular weight: 2000–10,000 Da (cosmetic range). Insoluble in water but swells into a large gel mass. In cosmetics: forms clear or semi-transparent gels. Differs from carbomer: does not require neutralization (ready to use), less dependent on pH (effective pH 4–9). INCI: Sodium Polyacrylate. Functions: thickener, gelling agent, super moisturizer (retains water in the gel matrix), film-former.

Water-based gel serums, light moisturizing gels, toners and essence-gels, two-phase formulas (gel + oil), men's cosmetic products.

Key Benefits

✦
Super hydration — retains water up to 1000×
Sodium polyacrylate retains water in its gel matrix due to hydrophilic carboxyl groups that form a dense three-dimensional network. When applied to the skin: slowly releases water → long-lasting hydration. "Film" effect: a thin polymer layer on the skin reduces TEWL. Compared to glycerin: no sticky feeling, lighter texture with the same moisturizing effect.
◈
Gelling without neutralization
Unlike carbomer (requires TEA or NaOH for activation), sodium polyacrylate is already activated (sodium salt). Formulation advantage: simpler technological process, more stable over a wide pH range (4–9). Provides a clear transparent gel texture without cloudiness. Often used together with carbomer or xanthan gum to adjust rheological properties.
✧
Safety and tolerance
Sodium polyacrylate is safe according to CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review): approved for use in cosmetics. Does not absorb through the skin (large molecules). Hypoallergenic. Suitable for sensitive skin. Non-irritating. However: it is a microplastic (synthetic polymer) — restrictions are being discussed in some jurisdictions. Eco-friendly alternative: sodium acrylates copolymer from natural sources or biopolymers (xanthan, cellulose).

Suitable for

oily skincombination skinthose who do not like oily textures

Main Actions

✓ gelling and thickening of formulations✓ super moisture retention✓ reduction of TEWL
Sodium Polyacrylate vs Carbomer — comparison

Carbomer: requires neutralization, pH 5–8, gives a thicker gel, more common. Sodium Polyacrylate: does not require neutralization, pH 4–9, more stable but more expensive. Sodium Acrylates Copolymer: a blend of different acrylates — an intermediate option. In the INCI list, all three are listed separately. Sodium polyacrylate in low concentrations (0.1–0.5%): light gel. At higher concentrations (1–3%): thick gel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Sodium Polyacrylate do for skin?
Water-based gel serums, light moisturizing gels, toners and essence-gels, two-phase formulas (gel + oil), men's cosmetic products.
Who should use Sodium Polyacrylate?
Sodium Polyacrylate is suitable for: oily skin, combination skin, those who do not like oily textures.
Are there any warnings about Sodium Polyacrylate?
Carbomer: requires neutralization, pH 5–8, gives a thicker gel, more common. Sodium Polyacrylate: does not require neutralization, pH 4–9, more stable but more expensive. Sodium Acrylates Copolymer: a blend of different acrylates — an intermediate option. In the INCI list, all th

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