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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.

Found in these products
COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All In One CreamCOSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

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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