Ammonium Polyacrylate

What is Ammonium Polyacrylate?

Ammonium Polyacrylate is a synthetic, high-molecular-weight polymer produced by polymerizing acrylic acid monomers and neutralizing with ammonium hydroxide. Commonly used in skincare lotions, makeup foundations, sunscreens, and hair styling products, it serves as a versatile functional ingredient. In formulations, it works by swelling in water to form a three-dimensional network, increasing viscosity and preventing phase separation in emulsions. This thickening action ensures a smooth, spreadable texture. As a film former, it creates a sheer, flexible coating on skin or hair upon drying, promoting adhesion and resistance to water or rubbing. Its mild surfactant nature helps integrate oil and water phases during manufacturing, contributing to overall formula integrity and shelf-life performance without altering the sensory feel significantly.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 2 View on EWG →

PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emulsion stabilizer

Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.

Film former

Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.

Stabilising

Improves physical and/or chemical stability (e.g., preventing separation, precipitation, or degradation) to keep performance consistent over shelf life.

Surfactant

Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.

Benefits

Stabilizes emulsions to maintain smooth, consistent texture in lotions and creams.

Forms a protective film for better wear in makeup and sunscreens.

Enhances overall product stability, preventing separation over time.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Users of emulsion-based moisturizers seeking reliable texture.	Those with rare acrylate sensitivities.
Individuals applying long-wear foundations or sunscreens.	Individuals preferring mineral- or plant-based stabilizers.
People using hair products that require hold and stability.	People with extremely reactive skin, as a precaution.

Safety Notes

Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews.
Low potential for skin irritation in typical concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ammonium Polyacrylate

Is Ammonium Polyacrylate safe for daily use?

Yes, it's regarded as safe in cosmetics at standard levels with low irritation risk.

Does it cause acne?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0, suitable for acne-prone skin.

What products contain it?

Common in foundations, lotions, sunscreens, and hair stylers for stability.