Snapshot
- Overview
- An absorbent polymer that thickens formulas and controls shine.
- Category
- Tone/Texture, Oil Control
- Type
- Thickener
Sodium Polyacrylate
Sodium polyacrylate is a high-molecular-weight synthetic polymer used in personal care as a thickener and absorbent. It builds viscosity, suspends actives, and gives gels and creams a smoother, more matte feel.
Like this ingredient?
Our take
Is Sodium Polyacrylate a Good Ingredient?
It rates Good as a stable thickener that improves slip, suspension, and a matte finish, improving texture and wear rather than delivering direct treatment effects. Its benefits depend heavily on the overall formulation design, which keeps it out of the top tier.
What it does
Skin Benefits
It gives a smoother, cushiony glide and helps reduce shine by soaking up excess oil, creating a more elegant, non-sticky finish that can improve the look of pores and makeup wear.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
It's widely used in gels, lotions, and creams to thicken textures and keep particles uniformly dispersed, and used in oil-control primers and sunscreens for a lighter, more stable feel.
Before you use it
Safety
It's generally considered low in irritation for most users; transient eye or mucosal irritation can occur with exposure to concentrated or dry polymer. No common cosmetic-use restrictions are reported.
Products with Sodium Polyacrylate
